What does ‘alligator arms’ mean?
Alligator arms is startup and sales jargon for the behaviour of someone who refuses to extend themselves outside their comfort zone — pulling their arms close to their body like a short-limbed alligator. It is commonly used to describe team members who avoid risk-taking, sales reps who won’t pursue cold outreach, or partners who back away when financial commitment is required.
Coaching against alligator arms means structured stretch assignments, clear ownership and graduated risk exposure. Leaders also model the opposite — visibly reaching beyond their comfort zone — to set tone.