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In an industry where contractors, for lack of a better word, cannibalize each other in the arena of business competition, we only have to look at the Canada Goose to see the benfits of organizing.
It's teamwork. It is a fact that in the right formation the lifting power of many wings can acheive near twice the distance of any bird flying alone.
FACT
As each bird flaps its wings, it creates an "uplift" for the bird immediately following. By flying in a "V" formation, the whole flock has at least 71% greater flying range than if each bird flew on it's own.
LESSON # 1
People who share a common direction and sense of community can get where they are going more quickly because they are travelling on the thrust of one another.
FACT
When one goose drops out of formation it immediately feels the drag and resistence of trying to go it alone. It quickly gets back into formation to take advantage of the lifting power of the bird in front of it.
LESSON # 2
If we are wise we stay in formation with those headed where we want to go. We are willing to accept their help and in turn offer help to others.
FACT
When the lead goose gets tired, it rotates back into the formation, and another goose flies to the point position.
LESSON # 3
It is sensible to take turns doing the hard and demanding tasks and sharing leadership. As with the geese, people are interdependent of each others skills, capabilities, and unique arrangements of gifts talents and resources.
FACT
The geese flying in formation honk from behind to encourage those up front to keep up their speed.
LESSON # 4
We need to make sure our "honking" is encouraging. In groups where there is encouragement, the production is much greater. The power of encouragement (to stand by one's heart or core values and encourage the heart and core of others) is the quality of "honking" we seek. We need to make sure our honking is encouraging and not discouraging.
FACT
When a goose gets sick, wounded, or shot down, two follow it down to lend it help and protection. They stay with the fallen goose until it dies or is able to fly again. Then, they launch out on their own, or with another formation to catch up with their flock
LESSON # 5
If we are wise we will stick by our colleagues and each other in difficult times as well as in good!
The IBEW is endeavouring to bring all people in our industry together, to acheive the common goals of safety, quality and prosperity in a positive and encouraging workplace.
Organize your fellow electricians. Start building a better tomorrow today! It is an investment in your future, the future of your family, the contractor and the industry.
Contact us today to see how we can help you organize!
Written by Angeles Arrien.
