Team Power Dynamics

If you want your teams to be productive, you’ve got to understand power dynamics and how to properly manage it. First, let’s understand power. Many times, we like to lump power and influence together, interchanging them but the two are quite different. While they have similar outcomes and functions, there are distinct differences. We can agree that both power and influence are used to get other people to do things. The difference is in the “how.” Power uses authority where influence comes from relationships.
As a leader, you’ve got to use different methods to get people to act or even change their behavior. You may find, however, that using influence over power is more effective. Your approach to influence determines several things. First, how influential you are will always reflect in the people who follow you and their level of engagement and enthusiasm for following you. Are they resistant? Compliant? Committed? I challenge you to reflect on your leadership and influence and examine the people who follow you. Is there a pattern? What do your followers have in common? How are you influencing them? Do you find yourself asserting dominance and authority more often than necessary? Click here to learn more.

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