Exerci si ng Pow er & I nf lu enc e

Rec on ci ling My th & R ea lities

 What does is take to convert your power into
influence?
 To be willing and able to empower those on whom you
are dependent
 To be willing and able to cultivate networks, mutually
beneficial relationships with those on whom you are
dependent

 Influence as exchange

 Cultivating networks

 Safeguard against abuse of power

 Ea rly Ca reer D il emm as

Myth Reality

Basic Concept Authority Interdependency

Source of Formal Authority Everything But

Power
Key Players Subordinates Includes those
outside your
Key Technical formal authority
Technical, Human,
Competencies Conceptual
Desired Control, Commitment,
Outcomes Compliance Empowerment
Sou rces of P osi ti on al P ower
 Formal Authority
 Relevance
 Centrality
 Autonomy
 Visibility
Sou rces of P er son al P ower
 Expertise
 Track record
 Attractiveness
 Effort
 Co mm on ly T raded Or ga niz ationa l
Cu rren cies
 Inspiration Related
 Vision – Being involved in a task that has a larger
significance for the unit
 Excellence – Having chance to do important things really
well
 Moral / Ethical – Doing what is right by a higher standard
than efficiency

 Task Related
 Resources – Lending or giving money, budget, increases,
space etc.
 Assistance – Helping with existing projects and
undertaking unwanted tasks
 Cooperation – Giving task support, providing quickest
response time, approving a project or aiding
implementation

 Co mm on ly T raded Or ga niz ationa l
Cu rren cies
 Position Related
 Advancement – Giving / aiding in task that can lead to
promotion
 Recognition – Acknowledging effort, accomplishment &
abilities
 Visibility – Providing chance to be known by higher ups
 Reputation – Enhancing the way a person is seen
 Importance / Insiderness – Offering a sense of belonging
 Networks / Contacts – Providing opportunities to link with
others

 Relationship Related
 Acceptance / Inclusion – Providing closeness and
friendship
 Personal Support – Giving emotional backing
 Understanding – Listening to others concerns
 Co mm on ly T raded Or ga niz ationa l
Cu rren cies
 Personal Related
 Self Concept – Affirming ones values, self esteem and
identity
 Challenge / Learning – Sharing tasks that increases skills
and learning
 Ownership – Letting others have ownership / influence
 Gratitude – Expressing appreciation or indebtedness