In this chapter we illustrate how embodied metaphorical mapping can be effectively employed in organization development (OD) interventions. Conceptually, we suggest that an embodied metaphor approach complements and extends the traditionally deductively oriented approaches to employment of metaphor in organization development. This is accomplished by emphasizing induced rather than naturally occurring metaphors, building on a developed base of diagnostic technologies, enabling a collaborative effort of metaphorical selection and diagnosis, and enabling the employment of embodied metaphors to address specific, targeted issues of consequence to participants. We illustrate these considerations by discussing the case of a management retreat of a Swiss bank.

Sensemaking through embodied metaphors

As outlined in Chapter 2, we view metaphors as conceptual constructions that play a central role in the development of thought and inter-subjective meaning-making. Furthermore, and in line with social constructionism, we concur with the view that correspondence between source and target domain may be created, rather than just revealed (Black, 1979), making metaphor a prime means of gaining new perspectives on existing challenges. This generative potential of metaphors in terms of allowing for novel perceptions, explanations and inventions has been acknowledged in organization development (Burke, 1992; Marshak, 1993) but not extensively utilized. In addition to their generative potential, metaphors provide lenses for interpreting the world, embodying implicit evaluations and helping to concretize vague or abstract ideas (Armenakis and Bedeian, 1992; Hirsch, 1986).