Chapter 10 Table 10.3 Tools For Framing in Leadership Organizational Leadership

Function of Metaphor

They show a subject’s likeness with something else.

Function of Jargon/ Catchphrase

They frame a subject in familiar terms.

Function of Contrast

It describes a subject in terms of its opposite.

Function of Spin

It puts a subject in a positive or negative light.

Use It Because Metaphor

You want a subject to take on new meaning.

Use It Because Jargon/ Catchphrases

They help communicate a vision’s “god” and “devil” terms through references that can enhance meaning.

Use It Because Contrast

It is sometimes easier to define what your subject is not than state what it is.

Use It Because Spin

It can reveal your subject’s strengths or weaknesses.

Avoid It When Metaphor

They mask important alternative meanings.

Avoid It When Jargon/Catchphrases

A word or phrase is in danger of overuse.

Avoid It When Contrast

Meaning can be skewed by a poor contrast.

Avoid It When Spin

The ratio of spin to reality is excessive.

Example of Metaphors

“I feel our relationship is formal, like punching a ticket. “

Example of Jargon/ Catchphrases

“We’ve got to break the squares today.”

Example of Contrast

“It’s a choice between raising my hand for the teacher to ask if it’s OK or just telling it like it is.”

Example of Spin

“Which Ray will show up? The one who’s cooperative and generous or the egotist who constantly reminds others of his successes?”

Function of Stories

They frame a subject by example.

Use It Because Stories

They attract attention and can build rapport.

Avoid It When Stories

They mask important alternative meanings.

Example of Stories

“In my first three or four years here, I was a lot like you. I thought ...”