06/14/2024

Five Traps to Avoid as You Gain Power as a Leader

Don't let power change your perspective

There’s an old saying: The higher you rise, the funnier your jokes. But it’s no joke that power changes you. It alters your perceptions, judgment, and behavior. What’s less understood is that power doesn’t just change you, it changes those around you. Holding power means you become a target for others’ expectations and projections. When you step into a role of power, you are no longer seen as an individual, but as a symbol of authority.

People may overvalue your ideas and undervalue theirs. They may give you less honest — and less accurate — feedback. They may be less willing to speak up, trust their perceptions, and take risks — and may turn a blind eye towards your misconduct. They may also place unrealistic expectations on what you can accomplish — or, conversely, regard you with skepticism, watching to see if you’re worthy of your status.

The result? How people respond to your power shapes you in ways you may not realize. Without awareness of this dynamic, you can fall prey to the traps your power creates, undermining your ability to do what’s right for the organization and achieve your objectives. Studies show when leaders use their power poorly, followers’ motivation depreciates and their intentions to give their fullest contribution to their organizations declines.

Please select this link to read the complete article from Harvard Business Review.