How To Enhance Your Leadership with “Personal Power”
HBR IdeaCast
Deep Dive
What is personal power and how does it differ from formal power?
Personal power is the belief in one's own capability to create impact, rooted in internal values rather than formal hierarchies or status. Unlike formal power, which is tied to one's position in an organization, personal power is about radiating qualities like control, agency, and action, which naturally command respect and influence.
What are the three foundations of personal power?
The three foundations of personal power are a sense of control, an internal orientation (responding to inner signals rather than external ones), and a focus on action. These qualities are often exhibited by courageous individuals, such as whistleblowers, and are key to cultivating personal power.
How can affirming personal values enhance personal power?
Affirming personal values focuses individuals internally on what’s important to them, fostering a sense of agency and reframing their perspective to a bigger picture. Research shows that affirming values before high-stakes situations, like job interviews, can significantly increase the likelihood of success by making individuals appear more powerful and effective.
Why is giving important for building personal power, and how can it be balanced with self-assertion?
Giving is crucial for building trust, credibility, and competence, which are essential for personal power. However, it must be balanced with self-assertion to avoid becoming a workhorse. Assertiveness, especially in advocating for fairness, is perceived as a sign of personal power and can lead to greater respect and influence.
How can individuals exhibit personal power in high-stakes meetings?
In high-stakes meetings, individuals can exhibit personal power by moderating the flow of conversation, synthesizing ideas, and guiding the discussion. This approach shows curiosity, empowers others, and positions the individual as a valuable contributor, even if they are not the expert in the room.
What role does taking responsibility play in building personal power?
Taking responsibility for mistakes or situations communicates a sense of control and capability, which enhances personal power. Research shows that individuals who take responsibility are perceived as more trustworthy, likable, and respected, whereas blaming others signals a lack of control and diminishes power.
How can managers help employees develop personal power?
Managers can help employees develop personal power by giving them autonomy, sharing goals without micromanaging, and holding them accountable. Additionally, managers should redirect others to the employee for answers, reinforcing the employee’s authority and breaking the illusion of powerlessness.
What is the spotlight principle in the context of personal power?
The spotlight principle suggests that the person controlling the spotlight in a room holds the most power, not necessarily the person in the spotlight. In meetings or conversations, moderating the flow of discussion and guiding the conversation demonstrates control and enhances personal power.
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