Work Wisdom - Balancing Power and Productivity

Prashant Daily Motivation Tips #224 ( 15th Jan 2024)

Facing the daily dilemma of mixing work with power is a common experience. ???? Power, when handled responsibly, brings about a sense of duty rather than a tool for self-promotion. ?? It's meant to empower others and facilitate their work. ??? Work and power are intertwined; work may not necessitate power, but power facilitates effective implementation. ??

Take the example of a Project Manager overseeing a massive transformation project spanning 40+ professionals and a budget of almost USD 40 million. ?? The project, operating across 40 countries with diverse time zones and languages, demanded synchronized efforts. ??♂? Despite the team's accomplishments in the first year, the Project Manager was promoted to oversee a portfolio of 10 global transformation projects, managing 200+ professionals and projects now totaling over 300+ million. ?? However, he opted to assert his power through micromanagement, leading to conflicts, attrition, project delays, and dissatisfaction at every level and each step of the approval process system.

This forced the talented employee to leave the system and join another company. ??♂? All 10 projects went from Green to Red, and one reason each employee mentioned was the Approval Process System for each step, as he was interested in showing how powerful he is in the system. ????

After a year, he faced consequences, losing his position. ?? Now working as a consultant for the past seven years, he reflects on the downfall caused by a power-centric approach, despite his competence in the role. ??

Pushing teams with excessive systems and processes can hinder progress, but this shouldn't be a roadblock. ? Leaders must be enablers, not impediments, setting an example by empowering rather than showcasing power. ??

In my ten years of management experience, I've prioritized enabling my team, removing hindrances, fostering flexibility, and embodying leadership through facilitation, not power struggles. ??

Tips for Navigating Power Dynamics in Hierarchical Structures:

1. Communication: Foster open and transparent communication channels with higher-ups to understand expectations without power play.
2. Adaptability: Embrace flexibility and adapt to changes, demonstrating agility in a dynamic work environment.
3. Collaboration: Encourage collaborative efforts and teamwork, emphasizing collective achievements over individual power struggles.
4. Results-Oriented Approach: Focus on delivering tangible results rather than engaging in power politics, showcasing competence and dedication.
5. Professionalism: Maintain professionalism even in power imbalances, demonstrating resilience and dedication to your work.
6. Skill Enhancement: Continuously develop your skills to enhance your value within the organization, making you indispensable.
7. Network Building: Build a supportive network within the organization, fostering positive relationships that transcend power struggles.
8. Problem-Solving: Approach challenges with a problem-solving mindset, demonstrating your ability to contribute constructively.
9. Mentorship: Seek mentorship to navigate power dynamics effectively, learning from experienced individuals within the organization.
10. Self-Advocacy: Advocate for yourself professionally, ensuring your contributions are acknowledged and valued, irrespective of power dynamics.

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