Work-Role Metaphors

by Gopal Ramasammy-Cook (Career-Creative Coach, ZestWare)

We constantly apply metaphors to the roles we play in our work lives. In fact, using the word role in that way, already implies an actor-on-stage metaphor. The metaphors we use have great power. They influence the directions and outcomes of our work-lives.

Here is a list of metaphors that apply to work-role or function:

• Military commander


• Captain of a ship


• Landscaper


• Gardener


• The glue that holds it all together


• King or Queen


• Magician


• Warrior


• Jester


• A pawn


• A cog in a machine


• A tool


• Mother hen


• The anchor


• A resource


• The conductor of a symphony orchestra


• The lead guitarist


• An actor on a stage


• A sculptor


• A spanner in the works


• The engine


• The mechanic

What metaphors do you use to think about or describe your work-role or that of others who work with you? How does this influence your perspectives, work relationships, and work-related outcomes? Please post a comment and tell me about your personal experience with these or any other work-role metaphors.


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