Power Influence Approach
Power-Influence Approach
Kisha Katzmann
LDR/531
April 11, 2013
Andraea Herrin
Power-Influence Approach
The power-influence approach in studying leadership examines the influences leaders exert over others, whether these individuals are subordinates, colleagues, or even the leader’s manager. Yuki (2010) writes, “This research seeks to explain leadership effectiveness in terms of the amount and type of power possessed by a leader and how power is exercised” (p. 14). Power-influence leadership assumes the cause and effect relationship between leaders and followers only flows from management to subordinate (Yuki, 2010, p. 14). For example, a manager instructs his employee to pay an invoice, and the employee does as told, or employees attend an ethics seminar because the executives mandate it. Exercising power-influence can ensure adherence to internal policies like safety, dress codes, and hours of employment. It can also ensure adherence to federal laws like the provisions in the Sarbanes-Oxley Act.
The power-influence leadership approach enables a leader to influence the behaviors and attitudes of followers (Yuki, 2010, p. 14). It is effective in managing and accomplishing tasks as a leader gives instructions that other follow. Power-influence can sway people’s thoughts and opinions, which can be beneficial in terms of innovative ideas and more efficient methods of operations. It is especially effective for those who resist change even if it will lead to progress.
The power-influence method of leadership has its drawbacks as well. Some individuals use force and intimidation to accomplish certain objectives. They may use their title or position to pressure others to comply, and even though employees may obey at first, such coercion eventually leads to resistance and the undermining of authority (Alyn, 2009). For example, a manager may tell a direct report that if he does not complete a given stack of work,
Kisha Katzmann
LDR/531
April 11, 2013
Andraea Herrin
Power-Influence Approach
The power-influence approach in studying leadership examines the influences leaders exert over others, whether these individuals are subordinates, colleagues, or even the leader’s manager. Yuki (2010) writes, “This research seeks to explain leadership effectiveness in terms of the amount and type of power possessed by a leader and how power is exercised” (p. 14). Power-influence leadership assumes the cause and effect relationship between leaders and followers only flows from management to subordinate (Yuki, 2010, p. 14). For example, a manager instructs his employee to pay an invoice, and the employee does as told, or employees attend an ethics seminar because the executives mandate it. Exercising power-influence can ensure adherence to internal policies like safety, dress codes, and hours of employment. It can also ensure adherence to federal laws like the provisions in the Sarbanes-Oxley Act.
The power-influence leadership approach enables a leader to influence the behaviors and attitudes of followers (Yuki, 2010, p. 14). It is effective in managing and accomplishing tasks as a leader gives instructions that other follow. Power-influence can sway people’s thoughts and opinions, which can be beneficial in terms of innovative ideas and more efficient methods of operations. It is especially effective for those who resist change even if it will lead to progress.
The power-influence method of leadership has its drawbacks as well. Some individuals use force and intimidation to accomplish certain objectives. They may use their title or position to pressure others to comply, and even though employees may obey at first, such coercion eventually leads to resistance and the undermining of authority (Alyn, 2009). For example, a manager may tell a direct report that if he does not complete a given stack of work,
References: Alyn, K. (2009). . Retrieved from http://www.firerecruit.com/articles/680370-Leadership-and- the-Power-of-Influence Yuki, G. (2010). Leadership in organizations (7th ed.). Retrieved from The University of Phoenix eBook Collection database.