Power at Work

A big part of what we offer the leaders of organizations is greater self-awareness about how they come across to those around them. Indeed, organizational health and its benefits (improved productivity, retention of key people and problem solving) are impossible without some degree of self-awareness about how a leader’s behavior impacts others.

One of the things that’s easy to overlook, if you’re a leader, is just how powerful you are in the eyes of your employees. Indeed, we’ve watched entire teams pivot in reaction to the body language of the leader. This is normal and natural in organizations. What we’re pointing out is that leaders should be aware of their power and use it wisely.

What does that mean? Well, imagine you are a superhero and that every time you point your finger, a bolt of lightning strikes whatever or whomever you’re pointing at. If this was true, our bet is you’d be very careful about where you point your finger.

So, the next time you are displeased with the effort of your employee, consider the power you use in expressing your displeasure. A little bit goes a long way and makes it easier to have a corrective conversation unburdened by strong emotion (fear or resentment for starters).