Navigating the boardroom jungle: observations on bi-directional applications of animal archetypes as a metaphor for understanding current management perceptions – a systematic literature review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5902/1983465993622Parole chiave:
Leadership development, Organizational behavior, Management training, Role clarity, Symbolic representation, Team dynamicsAbstract
Purpose: The purpose of this study is to explore animal archetypes comparative metaphors involving the impact of contemporary managements and their managerial roles, and to advance the use of them for business communication, understanding, and leadership development.
Motivation: Although many theories are available in the literature of management, there exists no clear understanding of the complex management functions in the organizational hierarchy. Figurative designations for these functions offer a sense of how the public can easily understand and relate to them.
Design/methodology/approach: Using a combination of theoretical elements from Gareth Morgan and lie theory, the paper reports on a review of the literature, which brings together both Gareth Morgan and literature about organizational culture. Four out of the five executive traits (visioning, discernment, diligence, teamwork, and creativity) were associated respectively with several animal archetypes via qualitative animal characteristics and symbolic attributes.
Results: The study found a 5-class category model: lion “authority and strategic vision,” owl “cunning,” ant and bee “workmanship,” sheepdog “work in a group, and dolphin “innovation and flexibility.” They all intertwine to create a coherent system of management.
Practical implications: The model can serve as a helpful instrument in leadership and management development, contributing to our understanding of cross-cultural organizations. It also results in increased role clarity, team efficiency, and succession planning.
Originality/Value: By juxtaposing metaphorical symbolism with management theory, the study provides a fresh look at managerial dynamism and attempts to fill the void between theory and practice. The typology-based approach further contributes to theoretical discussions and offers clear indications of how successful leadership can be applied in organisations.
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