Power Boost!

Posted on September 03, 2011 by Ronald T. Brown, Ph.D.

How “power” should be used in leadership and and organizations, is being redefined – reflecting that power has more to do with exerting power over yourself than exerting power over others. The following are four tips to boost your “power” as a leader:

1. Be true to yourself, even if you are a little weird. Your High School years were the last time conformity and power went hand in hand. As an adult, power comes from knowing what sets you apart from the crowd — and how your distinctive traits are useful to help or serve others in a positive and unique way. Which brings us to…

2. Know how to express yourself. If you want your ideas to be heard, you need to know how to command the right kind of attention. Being witty (like Ronald Reagan) is powerful; while sarcasm is not. In addition, don’t qualify your opinions (“I may be the only person who thinks this, but…”). Finally, never ramble when stating your opinion, or making a key point. Indeed…

3. Less is usually more. Great cooks and entertainers leave audiences wanting more. Abraham Lincoln got it right when he gave the Gettysburg Address – one of the most powerful speeches in history. It was less than 300 words and lasted only two minutes. Be accurate, concise, and compelling.

4. Force isn’t power. Unless you’re a drill sergeant or prison warden, it is pretty hard to force anyone to do your bidding. Instead, people yearn to connect with purpose and passion and something bigger than themselves. As a leader, think authentic inspiration – for in a nutshell – that is the new “power” which drives effective leadership.