One of the most important areas of growth to focus on is getting comfortable with power. As in most parts of the business landscape, power is ignored until it’s abused. If you’re smart, you’ll get comfortable with power before it owns you. Check out "Leadership on the Line by Ron Heifetz and Marty Linsky. It addresses many power issues in a "real world" way.
Power can be a tremendous tool to help people an organizations. It also has the power to hurt as well. Consider the exploits, most recently, with Mass Mutual as they navigate through multiple scandals.
Here is a brief list of tips as you seek to "get comfortable" with power:
- Get a mentor. I say this a lot, but it one of the most important tools in keeping your feet on the ground.
- Do the work you love. Most issuses (negative) with power come from the "working dead."
- Read "Authentic Leadership" by Bill George. He is the former Chairman and CEO of Medtronic.
- Remember we’re here to serve. If you use power to serve, you’ll be fine.