The Wall Street Journal reported that for the past 22 years, the Labrador Retriever has been the most popular dog in the United States. Yet, in all 136 years of the Westminster Dog Show, it has never won Best in Show.
It appears that the criteria for judging a winner and picking a pet are different. Judges look for adherence to a standard (e.g.: "a clean-cut head with broad back skull"), etc. Dogs compete against that standard rather than against each other in the category.
Contrast that with families picking out a pooch to call their own. In this case, dogs are absolutely vying for attention vs. their siblings, kennel mates or other breeds. Families are looking for a sweet temperament, loving eyes and wagging tail. I doubt any family pet has been picked because of its broad back skull.
The lesson in all of this is to know what the criteria are before assessing a value judgment and making a choice. If you need a candidate that is good with detail work, don't be swayed by someone who is gregarious in the interview but can't sit still. If you need a durable car, don't fall for the one that is a great bargain. If you value innovation, don't set standards that rigidly monitor resources.
For the thousands of families who have a Lab as a pet, on most days, their dog is a true winner. Those who want a trophy instead of a big, sloppy kiss will have to wait for their reward!
It is important to know what is important before working toward that criteria. Tomorrow, I will share an exercise that can be used to illustrate this concept.
-- beth triplett
leadershipdots.blogspot.com
@leadershipdots
leadershipdots@gmail.com
Source: Wall Street Journal, "Everybody loves Labradors, so why are they underdogs?" by Ben Cohen, 2/11/13
Thanks to Colleen for the idea!
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