Greed for Power

LilibethC.Calanoga

AparriSchoolofArtsandTrades

“If I use my power and authority, then what else can you become?” - a line that most employees would not like to hear from their boss. When one wishes to control situations, he grips every opportunity to gain power and authority. For with power, there is influence. For with power, there is appeal in decision-making. For with power, there is opportunity.

It is very overwhelming to be designated positions or even secure promotions in our field of work. Chances like these also help us gain power and strength over the other workers. To most humble and humane employees who are lucky to acquire such, they use this power to motivate and lift up the others Yet to some, it is a great step to take advantage of, if not exploit the others especially the weak-willed ones It becomes a great avenue for manipulation as to take control of situations and actions that would launch them a favor

Once bestowed with power, you can easily influence the others in your workplace. Of course, in the hierarchy of work, those with higher designations or ranks are the ones being look up as they got more power than those in the bottom line. Though there are varying techniques to influence subordinates and peers in the workplace, using power over them tend to be easiest to take effect. It is for the very reason that most co-workers would normally respond in different ways: either comply, commit or counter.

Compliance happens when the circumstance is seemingly inevitable The subordinates do not necessarily desire to follow, but having known that the order or request is coming from a superior, they must have to do so Otherwise they will be charged of insubordination once they resist the influence Commitment takes place when they decide to accept the influence without any hesitation and even confide to support the goal in its realization. If the one with authority constantly acknowledges the initiatives and efforts of the responders, things are accomplished smoothly. This will surely lead to a balanced work habit and good working relationship. But to some point, the responders may counter the influence when it is deemed necessary. They may tend to be proactive or reactive in resisting the stimulus especially when it is already going beyond bounds and norms.

Undeniably, our superiors always have this controlling power and influence over us The reason why they always win or appeal in our decision-making They are inclined to use their legitimate power to advance or take advantage of an opportunity as we honor the legality of their position When you obey orders, you may or may not be rewarded On the contrary, if you resist an order, you may be judged and chastised immediately. Worse when it is even made known as a public matter. Thus, most subordinates are compelled to follow as they fear to get castigated when not in compliance.

As superiors become so obsessed with power, they forget that they should be the ones protecting the welfare of their subordinates and peers This is simply a simple step for greed to breed and dominate the system. Once this becomes a terminal habit, the workplace will no longer be a safe place for the rest for everyone can be a victim of manipulation. So, the moment we feel that the influence is no longer good and it is going against conventions, have your voice and assert your rights Be open to tell how you feel and never fear rejections

As a leader, never take advantage of that ounce of authority bestowed upon you Remember that there is nothing permanent in this world; that the wheel of life keeps on turning; and that everything is just borrowed. Your position today may not be the same in the morrow. How you treat your subordinates reflects your character as a head. So, why not reach out the rest and help them gain confidence and contentment at work? Optimize their interest to grow as you create nirvana in the workplace. Inspire them instead to achieved a greater fulfillment as a sensible member of the organization

Stop coercion and legitimating the abuse of power and authority End the stigma of branding an employee as noncompliant when they oppose an influence Listen to their thoughts and opinions to establish rapport and create a positive working environment. Empower everyone to improve and feel a sense of belongingness and to always take responsibility towards work. Be a motivational leader not just for one but for all. Build trust and rebuild your team.