Lead Grow Innovate Episode #35 Different types of power part 1

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Lead Grow Innovate Podcast

Business


Today We will begin working on a new subject matter that ties in with the last subject we worked on.  We will begin to break down the types of power that the experts tend to recognize and agree upon. FirstOne of the first things we need to do is distinguish between power and authority.This can be very easy to mix upPower deals with the ability to control events and to sway influence.People in power may be able to affect the outcome of situations Or steer the behavior of others.Authority on the other hand gives the person the right to give commands, enforce obedience, take action, or to make final decisions.This is a power that has been granted based upon position not on influence.Both can be usedThough one can and often will be more effective than the other These power traits that we will discuss can be used for good Or they can be used for self-promotion at the expense of othersIt will be up to you to decide who you want to be remembered as.As leaders we have influenceWe can abuse our power and ensure that we look good while others fail Or we can make sure that the recognition is awarded where it is deserved and earned5 traitsThe five types of power that we will be expanding upon in the next three shows will be Reward power - this would be the type of power based upon rewarding and punishmentCoercive power - this type of power is based on fear.  The fear of reprimand or the avoidance of actions that may cause punishment.Legitimate power - this is the power granted based on position.  Easily mistaken for authority but with some differences that we will discuss next week.Expertise power - This would be the power gained through expertise in a field.Finally, we come to Referent power - Also know as charismatic power.  This is based on the individual's connection and potential admiration for the individual.Reward PowerAs leaders, we often have the ability to reward our teamsOr we may have to deal with punishment based upon poor performance or dangerous activities in the workplace.Back to rewards.We have many ways we can reward our teams for a job well done.  Rewards can be a catalyst for motivation in employees.Though for this to be truly effective you will need to work hard at it.Try to catch people in the act of doing it right and recognize those moments immediately.One of the best ways to reward is to know your team.Other times a simple thank you and recognition are all it takes to let the employee know that their hard work is noticed and appreciated.This is beneficial to all involved.One small noteThis power can be very quickly abused It will be very important to find a balance between rewarding for a great effort and quality work versus rewarding for completing the expectation.If overused this power can reduce your overall influence and it will become the expectation for everything that is done.  If you let off you will see a reduction in morale and productivity.Applying rewards effectivelyRequires taking the time to recognize quality performance and effortsIt also requires providing effective feedback when work is above expectation so the team knows why the reward was given but also feedback when quality is not up to standardsThis is as important as the recognitionQuality feedback will allow the team member or team to perform better in the future if given properly and effectively When used correctly reward power can be very effective and instrumental in boosting morale in a company or department.