Power and influence are topics in the workplace that everyone recognizes but that few talk about. I suspect that after reading Jeffrey Pfeffer’s newest book, Power (available 9/14), this will change.
Pfeffer does a great job drawing the topic out, making it relevant and then politely suggesting that we ignore the development of our own influence…and ultimately, our power, at our own career peril. The book is filled with good examples, practical guidance, and I suspect for some people, eye-opening perspectives on why you should care about cultivating your influence.
I posted recently on this topic in a Leadership Caffeine piece, entitled: “The Noble Pursuit of Power and Influence,” which was in part inspired by a cover-to-cover reading of Jeffrey’s book. The topic is easily misconstrued and even inappropriately linked to the many ethics and legal violations that we’ve seen from too many leaders during the past decade. The comments and feedback on the post reflect both the recognition of the importance of the topic and some of the angst that we have over those that actively and overtly pursue power. At the risk of being redundant, I suspect that “Power” will help move the conversation towards the positive.
My bottom-line: this is an important “Why” and “How” guidebook for the modern professional.
Enjoy the conversation!
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Disclosure: a copy of the book was provided at no charge for my review.
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Disclosure: a copy of the book was provided at no charge for my review.
Pfeffer is one of the best academics at translating research. Sutton also recommends this book highly. I need to get it! Thanks, Art.
No wonder. Pfeffer and Sutton are cut from the same, easy to read academics, cloth. Power has seemed to be a dirty word as of late. Power struggles exists but few talk about them. I applaud Pfeffer for bringing this to light again.