WFH Bird, Cat, and Cow

The results of a cursory observation categorise types of government employees based on their work characteristics into three metaphorical types: the bird type, the cat type, and the cow type. Naturally, the selection of animal types for this metaphor is not based on scientific research. This is purely a reflection of my experience over dozens of years as a government employee. Bird-type employees. They are quiet builders, but real supporters. Bird-type employees are rarely conspicuous, but they are the ones who most determine outcomes. Like birds weaving nests—piece by piece, without much noise—these employees work in silence, but their results are concrete. They are not too busy presenting themselves, not always present in all meetings, and not skilled at selling narratives about their work. If examined more deeply, they are the ones who compile documents completely, close gaps in errors, and ensure programmes truly run. They understand that work is not about being seen, but about being completed. However, ironically, in a bureaucracy that still values symbols, this bird type often does not receive the spotlight. They are like the foundation of a building that is not visible, but if absent, the entire structure collapses. Like cats, they appear active here and there. They often appear in conversations. They enjoy engaging in office dynamics. But that activity does not always correspond proportionally to results. Cat-type employees are skilled at creating the impression of busyness. They talk a lot in meetings, respond quickly to messages, and always seem ‘involved’. However, when asked for concrete output, the answers are often vague. More problematically, cat-type employees often create ‘administrative clamour’. They prolong unnecessary discussions, complicate simple matters, and divert focus from substance to dynamics. Cow-type employees. They are stable, but their slowness is exasperating. This type is not noisy, not socially problematic, but has one main characteristic: slowness. Like cows walking calmly in the pasture, these employees adhere to rules. They do not create many problems. They carry out tasks according to procedures.