Shepherding Leadership

I’m assuming that sheep herding is not a well-known occupation among many of the folks who read this blog on a regular basis. Although I grew up on a farm in rural central Pennsylvania I confess my knowledge of the subject is somewhat limited as well. However, a recent encounter with the idea of shepherd as a leadership metaphor peaked my interest and so I will offer a few insights while I’m still learning about the subject.

Sheep are not easy animals to take care of. Their timid demeanor can quickly paralyze them with fear and shepherds must be aware of this as they seek places to graze and bed their flock. The social nature of sheep is filled with rivalry and competition. An older ewe (female sheep) will generally dominate the flock, bossing her way to the top by simply butting those younger than she is out of the best spots to graze and sleep. The other sheep replicate her behavior and thus a clear order is established, mostly by being more cunning and arrogant than those around you. Sheep are especially vulnerable to parasites and insects whose presence creates unrelenting torment and distraction. Finally, sheep require nourishment, fresh green grass and clear pure water. While this seems obvious, in many of the regions around the world where sheep are raised these natural resources are in short supply.

Shepherds must find a way to manage their flocks knowing that these four conditions can only be provided through his or her diligent love and care. If she neglects any of her responsibilities the results will be devastating to the health of her animals and to the future of her business. By now you may have begun to see the striking similarities between sheep and people and why I have chosen to connect shepherding with leadership.

Today’s volatile economic and business climate is affecting even the most courageous employees. The fear of losing a home, a job, or being subjected to higher taxes and inflation can paralyze decision-making and affect productivity. The workplace is frequently home to a domineering boss or arrogant co-worker whose actions cause untold emotional damage and establish a competitive and defensive work environment. Every worker is subjected to dozens of distractions, large and small in any given day, affecting the quality and quantity of work that gets done. Lastly, one of the first things that gets slashed from many company budgets in times like these are investments in employee training, development, and personal well being. Without being emotionally and intellectually nourished every employee’s performance and self-esteem will suffer.

A shepherding leader will recognize that, like sheep, his or her flock of employees requires careful attention if the organization is to weather the storm and emerge strong and healthy. It is the calm and confident presence of the shepherding leader who can quell anxiety and assuage fears about the future. A leader’s mentoring can also discourage unhealthy behavior by supervisors and colleagues while demonstrating that status and respect is earned through serving others, not badgering or controlling them. Shepherding leaders must be proactive in reducing conditions that cause workplace distractions and also help employees to deal more effectively with emotional irritations through effective coaching. Finally, employees should be nurtured through high quality training programs and treated with care and respect, even when a layoff seems inevitable.

While it is unlikely any of us will ever shepherd a real flock of timid, unruly, distracted, and hungry sheep we can learn some valuable lessons from those who dedicate their lives to this underappreciated occupation. If you are fortunate enough to work for a shepherding leader during this uncertain business climate you already know what I mean. For the rest of you it’s time to grab that rod and staff and head to the hills for a valuable leadership lesson.