Working World

Even if you don’t have a classical education, you probably recognize the name Machiavelli. He was an early modern writer who advocated force and deception as ways to gain and hold onto power.

Today’s work site doesn’t exactly compare to the old Italian city-states, but there are similarities. For one thing, wherever people come together, some have more power, and some have less. It is vital to appreciate where power comes from and to understand that no one is without it.

For instance, some power in the work place comes from legitimate roles that people fill. As president of a company, you have power. If people don’t fulfill your requirements, they’re apt to lose their jobs. A supervisor may exercise power over rewards: days off, merit pay and so forth.

Another type of power arises from skill or expertise. People look to you for what you know. Step out of your sphere or let laziness erode your skills, and power will fade or disappear.

A third way people exercise power is through intimidation or coercion. As Machiavelli pointed out, this works — but only if you manage to keep it over the long haul and only if underlings don’t rebel.

The best and most lasting type of power is respect. It is the kind of power not taken, but granted to you because your colleagues honor your character.

What kind of power gets the best response from you? What kind of power do you wield? If you are a successful leader, it’s probably respect and expertise.  

Prior to writing on employment issues, Elizabeth Hanink worked as a telephone operator, library aide and as a nurse.