What the Animals in the Zoo Can Teach Us About Communication

Have you ever observed the many ways people communicate in a group situation?

On the one hand we have someone who wants to cut to the chase. They know what needs to happen, they want a quick decision wonder why everyone else is still discussing it?

Someone else wants every piece of information before making a decision. Then there is a colleague who always has a new idea to put on the table or the person who is concerned about the impact of decisions on the wider team.

The truth is we're all different when it comes to communication. That difference in approach when properly understood and harnessed can become a source of strength for any team. Many of us are a mix of different styles but most of us have one style that stands out more than the others.

One of the simplest ways to explain these differences in communication style is through a model we call It's a Zoo Around Here. It’s a fun way to look to explain our different communication styles. Once you understand the different animals, you'll start seeing them everywhere.

Meet the Animals

The Lion

Lions like action. They want to get things done, make decisions and move forward at speed. They are often natural leaders because they're comfortable taking responsibility and making tough calls even when it means stepping on a few toes.

The downside? Sometimes they move so quickly they leave everyone else behind. What feels decisive to a Lion can feel abrupt to others.

If you're communicating with a Lion, get to the point quickly. Focus on solutions, outcomes and next steps. Long explanations and unnecessary detail will test their patience.

When is a Lion style at its best? When speed and decisiveness is a priority.

The Monkey

Monkeys are fun, they bring energy into a room. They're enthusiastic, creative and usually have lots of ideas. They're often the people who get everyone talking, lift morale and help create a positive atmosphere.

However, the challenge is that they can sometimes get distracted. They have so many ideas to share that they may loose focus. A Monkey can be halfway through one idea before they've finished explaining the last one. Their creativity is often one of their biggest strengths.

If you're communicating with a Monkey, make it engaging. Allow a bit of social chat and don't immediately shoot down their ideas.

When does the Monkey style work best? When we need energy and creativity.

The Elephant

Elephants like facts. They think things through carefully and want to understand the detail before making a decision. They like to spot the flaw in a proposal They’re often the people asking questions in meetings while everyone else is ready to move on. For some people this can feel frustrating.

For the Elephant, it is about getting things done right. They want to ensure the decision is the right one.

If you're communicating with an Elephant, come prepared. Give them the information they need and allow them time to process it.

When is it best to use the Elephant’s style? When it is important to understand the detail and risk when making an important decision.

 

The Dolphin

Dolphins are the relationship builders. The have a natural concern for those around them. They're the people checking in on colleagues, helping others and making sure everyone feels included.

They care deeply about people and often play an important role in keeping teams connected. They want to ensure everyone is onboard. The challenge is that they don’t want to upset anyone so they can sometimes avoid difficult conversations or issues.

If you're communicating with a Dolphin, take time to build trust. Show empathy and explain the impact decisions may have on people.

When is the Dolphin style at its best? When it’s important to understand the people impacts of an initiative and when engagement is critical.

Why This Matters

One of the biggest communication mistakes we make is assuming everyone thinks like we do. They don't.

The Lion wonders why everyone is taking so long. The Elephant wonders why nobody has thought through the risks. The Monkey wonders why everyone is being so serious. The Dolphin wonders why nobody has considered how people feel. None of them are wrong.

They're simply looking at the world through a different lens.

Become a Zookeeper

If you've ever said your workplace feels like a zoo, then perhaps the most important role is that of the zookeeper. Know how to manage each animal.

The best communicators don't expect everyone to communicate the same way they do.

They adapt. They understand that different people need different things. A Lion may need a short, direct conversation. An Elephant may need data and evidence. A Monkey may need enthusiasm and engagement. A Dolphin may need reassurance and support.

The more flexible you become, the easier communication becomes and the better you become at dealing with others.

 

Stop Judging. Start Understanding.

What if the colleague you find difficult isn't difficult at all? What if they're simply a different animal? Employ each style to bring something to your team.

The Lion will drive results. The Monkey will bring ideas and energy. The Elephant protects quality. The Dolphin builds relationships.

Every team needs all four. The real skill is recognising the differences and adapting your style accordingly. When people feel understood, communication improves. When communication improves, relationships strengthen. When relationships strengthen, teams perform at their best.

So, the next time you're sitting in a meeting and wondering why people are behaving differently, take a look around. You might just be sitting in a zoo.