Baboons, like humans, are social animals, with their hierarchy maintained by constant eye contact with their leaders. Studies show that subordinates glance at their bosses every 20 to 30 seconds, a behaviour mirrored in human workplaces. This comparison between human and baboon behaviour is part of a broader field of study known as ethology, which investigates how animal behaviour can inform our understanding of human social structures.
In the corporate world, employees often look to their managers for cues on how to behave, a phenomenon known as ‘social referencing’. This can range from picking up on their mood to understanding what is considered acceptable behaviour in the workplace. It’s not just about fear of punishment, but also about fitting into the group and understanding its norms.
Furthermore, the frequency of these glances can indicate the stability of the hierarchy. In baboon troops, a glance every 20 seconds suggests a stable hierarchy, while a glance every 10 seconds may indicate instability. Similarly, in a human workplace, the frequency of social referencing can hint at the stability of the leadership and the overall health of the organisation.
In essence, understanding these behavioural similarities between humans and animals can offer valuable insights into workplace dynamics and leadership.
Go to source article: https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/work-matters/201005/how-often-do-you-look-your-boss-baboons-do-it-every-20-or-30-seconds