Compliance. Coercion. Commitment. Which type of power do you demonstrate?
Compliance. This type of power is transactional. If you do XYZ for me or the organization, you will receive 123. This is where most organizations operate. If you exceed KPIs, you get a bonus. If you go above and beyond, you are recognized at the all-company meeting.
Coercion. This relies on fear, threats, and intimidation. Education leaders are masters at this one because oftentimes accountability for student learning is used as a threat rather than an opportunity to collaboratively solve a problem. I've seen a lot of C-suite people fall into this trap as well. When someone asks for clarification or rationale for an initiative, it is perceived as questioning authority rather than an opportunity to clarify communications.
Commitment. This is built on trust. People follow because they believe in the leaders, trust them, and are aligned with their vision and values. It relies on mutual respect for each other. It is the most legitimate power and often the most difficult to achieve.
Why? Why is it hard to build trust or exhibit mutual respect? I would say it's the small things. If you want the commitment type of power, then start with yourself. How credible are you perceived? Examine your intentions. Then, listen first and clarify expectations. Work to understand what people say. Third, keep your commitments and deliver results. Do what you said you will do. Next, practice accountability. Report on your own performance even when it is not on-point (especially then). Then, just continue the process. Persist. Be consistent.
Make a power play. Make it towards authentic power. Power built by trust.
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