Those of you who know me well know how much I love my cats, as will those who read our blogs or catch up on LinkedIn.

I have to say though, that I don’t celebrate their birthday, buy them gifts on anniversaries, or put their names on xmas cards. I don’t think that makes me a bad person – it’s just not my way.  I do however, anthropomorphise (wow all those o’s) them. I can’t help it. So, Here’s what happened when I started aligning stereotypical behaviours to their position in the hierarchy):

The old political regime

Minnie – our CEO – (not the mama! – for those Dinosaurs lovers). She is a Tortie with some very old school behaviours. She treats everyone like they are there to do as she bids. Possibly, about to be ousted by the new upstart in the group. Knows that capability is an issue, but doesn’t know how to measure it.

Spikey – our late and much lamented ginger haired COO – kept everyone in line, could be a bit feisty – but had the ear of the CEO. Implemented her decisions. Didn’t care about capability so long as stuff got done by someone.

Corky – our late and much lamented tuxedo office junior. He was never quite as biddable as he should be, didn’t get any of the rules, was frequently late, badly dressed and always hungry, but somehow always achieved what he set out to do – knew he didn’t have the capability but was never quite sure why.

The new political regime

Minnie – our CEO – see above – she’s now measuring capability with the support of her consultant (that would be me! And its currently based on delivery of nightly focused 121s and the right treats).

Darcey – our new CFO – (also a Tortie – very similar to CEO, cut from the same cloth but with some new ideas) Counts the toys every day, measures out rewards with a strict eye on quantity, doesn’t always remember to be fair. Not afraid to argue her point. Reckons she could take the CEO down if only the door was left open. Has seen a capability model she likes and is strategically planning how to use it to get rid of the CEO (attempts nightly to distract me from the focused 121s and demands her own share of the treats is equal to that of the CEO).

Zoom – the (tabby) Sales Director – he has ultra-smooth manners, never forgets you, ensures you are included, moves at the speed of light, attempts and fails daily to get power over the CFO. He’s on commission from the CFO to bring in more toys and earn his rewards. He’s a bit smarmy with the CFO and will probably attempt a coup if she doesn’t take down the CEO soon. Liked the capability model, can see how to use it, will go with it as long as its quick and easy and reaps rewards (doesn’t care how its measured really and wants a larger than average portion of the treats – 121s are optional but can be done remotely at the top of his voice if necessary).

All joking apart, capability measurement is going to be a big thing in the next few weeks, watch this space………..

Note to self: assigning stereotypical behaviours is not good practice for an equality and diversity enthusiast – this is the last time I shall be permitted this approach.

Meanwhile, some pics of cats to bring a smile to your week. :)

For more information about: International Cat Day 2022, follow this link.