Exploring the parallels between dogs and their owners
By Jorgelina Bross-Puglisi
May 21, 2025
Recently, I came across an article about how dogs tend to resemble their owners (or vice versa). It is a long discussed topic, but still a fascinating observation, often attributed to the deep bond and mutual adaptation that develops over time. This article triggered a few questions.
Do team members come to resemble their project managers after working together for a substantial period? Furthermore, do project managers unconsciously select team members according to their preferences? Can identifying commonalities among team members ultimately increase collaboration?
Resemblance Through Adaptation
As dog owners and their pets spend more time together, they often adapt to each other’s habits, routines, and even physical traits. This gradual adaptation develops a sense of mutual understanding and synchronized behavior.
Similarly, within a professional context, team members and their project manager can develop a certain level of resemblance through prolonged interaction. This resemblance may manifest in various ways, such as communication styles, problem-solving approaches, and even attitudes toward work.
Project managers, consciously or not, set the tone for their teams. Their leadership style, values, and expectations shape the team dynamics. Over time, team members may adapt to these elements, leading to a cohesive unit that reflects the project manager’s characteristics. This resemblance can contribute to a harmonious work environment where everyone is on the same page and, hopefully, happy.
All this sounds good if the project manager’s behaviours have a positive effect on their teams.
Is the opposite also true? Probably. But most likely, such dysfunctional teams where the project manager cannot reflect such positive charateristics and fails to create a harmonious way of working, might not last long and will need to adapt.
Selection Based on Preferences
Just as dog owners may choose pets that align with their personality and lifestyle, project managers might select team members who share similar values and work ethics. This selection process can be intentional or subconscious. Project managers might incline toward individuals who complement their strengths and compensate for their weaknesses, creating a balanced and efficient team.
Moreover, the recruitment process often involves assessing cultural fit, which encompasses shared beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors. When team members align with the project manager’s vision and values, the likelihood of successful collaboration increases. This alignment can strengthen team cohesion and productivity, as everyone works toward common goals.
Identifying Commonalities for Increased Collaboration
While initial selection plays a role, the true test of a team’s synergy lies in its ability to identify and leverage commonalities. Recognizing shared traits and values among team members can cultivate a sense of belonging and unity. This sense of belonging is crucial for effective collaboration, as it encourages open communication, trust, and mutual respect.
Project managers can facilitate this process by creating opportunities for team members to connect on a personal level. Team-building activities, regular check-ins, and open dialogues can help uncover common interests and experiences. These shared elements provide a foundation for stronger relationships and collaboration.
The Benefits of Resemblance
When team members resemble their project manager in terms of values, work ethics, and communication styles, several benefits emerge. First, the team is likely to experience fewer conflicts, as everyone operates under a shared understanding. Second, decision-making processes become more efficient, as there is a common approach to problem-solving. Third, the sense of unity and purpose can boost morale and motivation, leading to higher levels of productivity.
However, it’s important to maintain a balance between similarity and diversity. While resemblance can increase cohesion, diversity brings fresh perspectives and innovative solutions. Project managers should aim to create teams that balance these two aspects, ensuring that the team’s strength lies in its unity and its ability to adopt different viewpoints.
Conclusion
The parallels between dogs resembling their owners and team members resembling their project managers highlight the importance of mutual adaptation, intentional selection, and the identification of commonalities. By promoting an environment where team members align with the project manager’s values and by recognizing shared traits, project managers can boost collaboration and create cohesive, high-performing teams. Ultimately, the resemblance, balanced with diversity, can lead to a powerful team dynamic.
My dog is a laid back pug, I wonder what that says about me.
Love your pet, love your team!
Trainer & Consultant
International Institute for Learning (IIL)
Jorgelina is an accomplished industrial engineer, project manager, and consultant with solid international experience in various industries. She has conducted numerous projects in more than 15 countries in Latin and North America, Europe, and Asia. She is a results-oriented leader, with excellent communication and facilitation skills.
