What are the challenges of using social influence in team dynamics?

2 Challenge 2: Social loafing

Social loafing is the tendency of some team members to reduce their effort or contribution when working in a group, relying on others to do the work. This can result in lower performance, dissatisfaction, and resentment among team members. Social loafing can be influenced by factors such as unclear or unequal goals, roles, or rewards, low accountability, or lack of identification with the group. To prevent social loafing, you should set clear and specific expectations, monitor and evaluate progress , provide feedback and recognition, and create a sense of belonging and purpose.

4 Challenge 4: Influence tactics

Influence tactics are the methods or strategies that team members use to persuade or convince others to support their ideas, opinions, or actions. They can be positive or negative, depending on the intention and outcome of the influence. Positive influence tactics can enhance trust, cooperation, and commitment, while negative influence tactics can erode trust, cooperation, and commitment. Influence tactics can be influenced by factors such as relationship, authority, reciprocity, or scarcity. To use influence tactics effectively, you should consider the context, the goal, and the audience, and choose the tactics that are appropriate, ethical, and respectful.

5 Challenge 5: Ethical dilemmas

Ethical dilemmas are situations where team members face a conflict between their personal or professional values and the expectations or demands of the team, the project, or the stakeholders. They can pose a challenge for using social influence, as they may require compromising one's integrity, reputation, or responsibility. Ethical dilemmas can be influenced by factors such as norms, incentives, or pressures. To deal with ethical dilemmas, you should clarify your values, principles, and standards, communicate and justify your position, seek guidance and support, and balance the interests and needs of all parties involved.

6 Challenge 6: Cultural diversity

Cultural diversity is the variety of backgrounds, beliefs, values, and behaviors that team members bring to the team. It can be a source of richness, creativity, and innovation, but also a source of misunderstanding, conflict, and bias. Cultural diversity can affect how team members perceive, interpret, and respond to social influence, as they may have different preferences, expectations, or norms. To embrace cultural diversity, you should learn about and appreciate the differences and similarities among team members, adapt your communication and influence style, and leverage the strengths and opportunities of diversity.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?