[Water Lily]

THE SABOTEUR

There are many people in organizations driven by individual recognition, money and self-interest at the expense of their co-workers, their families and friends, consumed by the fear of losing what they hold. But the ceaseless quest for power to meet one's own needs has a big price tag attached -- a loss of relationships and a sense of who we really are. How many lonely people do you see wandering the halls of your organization who once had power but lost it, and are now bitter, filled with jealousy and longing for what others have?

THE CHARACTER

Gollum-Smèagol, who was corrupted by the power of the ring. Just look at what he became -- a lonely, withered, starving creature whose mind has been emptied of all but the desire to regain his "precious" and who has become a shadow of his former self. Do you sometimes see Gollum in yourself?

THE MISCHIEF MAKERS

In school, they were the class clowns. Now we have to work with them. In fact, they're quite likeable, well-meaning, and fun to be around. They are good team players and protect others to whom they are loyal.

But they often seem to be getting into trouble, more often by accident than intent. They like adventure but meddle in affairs they shouldn't, attending meetings they have no business being at or making an off-handed comment that gets you an unexpected phone call from a senior executive. Their occasional misfortunes are vastly outweighed by their desire to do the right thing, even if the road they take can cause heartburn for others every once in a while.

THE CHARACTERS

The hobbits Merry and Pippin who, despite their fears of the unknown, take risks for their friends and, along the way, learn to take responsibility and earn the faith of very important people.

THE BLIND FOLLOWERS

We have met many of them in our careers -- middle and upper managers who have given themselves over completely to the organization. Now rabid followers, they do not question or challenge, carrying out the most odious orders without thought or pity. Perhaps at one time, there was a real person under the cloak but now they seem to have no identity beyond serving the powers that be. As one senior executive once shared: "This place really isn't so bad, once you get over the lobotomy."

THE CHARACTER

The Ringwraiths, or Dark Riders, were once kings but they sold their souls and are now slaves to the dark power. Have you ever found yourself getting counsel from a co-worker, suggesting that the way to get ahead was to toe the company line and not rock the boat? Be careful what you bargain for. You could become one of them.

THE EVIL DOER

Like events happening in a distant land, decisions that affect us are often made by those we rarely get to see but their glowing eye of power is keenly felt. Those who lead today's global organizations wield unimaginable power and influence. With that power comes the ability control vast resources -- financial, political and human -- and the temptation to use it to dominate others and amass personal wealth. For these people, there is no debate: Power is to be used purely for their own ends.

THE CHARACTER

Sauron, the evil overlord who is hunting for the ring of power to use Middle-Earth for his own greedy ends. We often need to look no further than our own organizations to find echoes of Sauron. Under such a leader, the office can begin to feel like the wastelands of Mordor.

THE TRAITOR

Can you recognize those who were once a respected member of an inner circle? Perhaps at one point in their career they were at the top of their field, respected and admired for their expertise and great accomplishments. Then they sold out, turning their backs on the values and ethics of their profession and rationalizing the changes as a new awareness of the real world. They become deeply cynical, dismissing former colleagues as naive idealists. Their behaviour, more often than not, leads them to professional ruin -- or to another unsuspecting organization -- but not until much damage has been done.

THE CHARACTER

Saruman, formerly the leader of the White Council, he embraced the evil of Sauron but hid his conversion so he could keep tabs on what the council was planning. Once unmasked and defanged, he lost power but was still able to do great harm in other places.

THE TRUE FRIEND

There are people who delight in what they do, know their capabilities and limits and have little desire or interest in moving up the corporate ladder. Loyal and giving, they are often among the most devoted and trustworthy. They are also committed in other areas of their life as well, working for charities or perhaps coaching the local soccer team. They are interested in relationships, not because it will get them somewhere but because they genuinely delight in the company of others. They know who they are and where they belong and that knowledge keeps them from being corrupted by power and office politics.

THE CHARACTER

Samwise Gamgee, the brave, faithful companion whose support and loyalty kept Frodo from going beyond his strength. Without Sam, the ringbearer would have failed. The Sams of the office are happy to tend their gardens but will in a moment forego their passions to help a colleague in need.

Rick Lash is a management development expert and psychologist in Toronto.