Tips For Herding Cats: Techniques For Managing People
Have you ever tried to herd cats – when you see that picture in your mind, think of what a difficult task that would be if that was your job. As we know, cats are independent. They try to be in control of a situation all of the time, and really don't like to be told what to do!
Managing people can, of course, be equally as challenging.
Now, substitute "cats" for "people."
Following these tips will have you well on your way to successful people management while maintaining a sense of humour, your sanity and perhaps a shred of dignity!
1. Lead without commanding
Ordering cats to do anything is a waste of your time and talents. Cats usually respond better to non-threatening, non-aggressive leadership, and are more likely to accept leadership if it is offered and not imposed.
2. Earn their trust
Cats need to know that their ‘leader’ can be relied upon to be truthful, fair, consistent, and supportive. Respect must be given before trust can be earned. Respect who the cat is and you'll eventually be rewarded with its trust. Trust is mutual - you must also, of course, trust the cat.
3. Be real
Be yourself, and be genuine about it. Kids, dogs, cats - they can all spot a phoney or a liar from a mile off, and they always seem to know who really doesn't like them, no matter how you try to disguise it. On the positive side, they also sense who does like them.
4. Give them space
Cats do things for their own reasons, not yours. Cats need freedom to move about without restrictions or judgment. Cats need space just to be cats. They need permission to explore, to wander, to learn, to take charge of their own actions and responsibilities.
5. Provide lots of rewards
Cats need to feel valued and affirmed for who they are and what they do. Rewards, even small treats, mean a lot and are always appreciated. Be generous with praise - and don’t necessarily expect any in return.
6. Take time to play
Cats like to relax, stretch, and find ways to play. Playtime helps provide cats with a positive way to relieve stress, to refresh and renew themselves, and to turn on their creative juices. Just watch a cat imagine that a feather on a string is really an exotic bird to be hunted.
7. Land on your feet
Develop a win-win attitude in all your interpersonal relationships. Never back a cat into a corner. Allow everyone (yourself included) a safe exit with grace and dignity.
8. Read the signals
A growl, a hiss, an arched back and a ruffled tail mean "back off!" There is usually a very good reason why a cat senses danger or is reluctant to go in the direction you want it to go. Pay attention, and try to find out what's causing the problem. Sometimes it's not a good idea to force the issue.
9. Be clear about boundaries
Cats need to know their limits. Be clear, consistent, and firm about the rules and boundaries. A spray water bottle and a loud "NO!" works wonders if used only when necessary. (NOTE: the spray bottle technique isn't recommended for people, even though it may be tempting at times!)
10. Keep the litter box clean
Well, there are some messes that must be cleaned up as part of a manager's job, aren't there? Maintain a clean, safe and interesting environment in which to do business, and you'll have much happier cats!
P.S. See next months issue to find out how to keep those cats, so they don’t find food elsewhere!
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