Building Power to Lead: Executive Leadership Lessons on Power from the Stanford LEAD Online Business Program

Stanford professor and renowned power dynamics expert Jeffrey Pfeffer has developed a unique course that pulls back the curtain on the often misunderstood world of power dynamics. In “Power: Why Some People Have It—and Others Don’t,” Pfeffer dives deep into the strategies and tactics that can transform your career trajectory. This eight-week course, offered through Stanford Graduate School of Business as part of the Stanford LEAD Online Business Program, tackles the challenges of navigating power dynamics head-on. I’m excited to share the key takeaways, who like me, might have previously shied away from the power conversation.

A. Leveraging Power for Career Success – Why Influence is Key

Power isn’t inherently good or bad; it’s a neutral tool. And since hierarchies and power dynamics are inevitable, avoiding power equates to limiting your impact. Professor Pfeffer emphasized that authentic leadership requires understanding and strategically leveraging influence.  Power, at its core, is the ability to influence others to get things done, even amidst opposition. Some powerful new lens through which to view your career are to:

• Embrace Power as Neutral: Power itself isn’t inherently good or bad – it’s a tool. Like any tool, its impact depends on the user’s intentions and skill.
• Recognize Power Dynamics: Every personal-to-professional relationship involves power dynamics. Understanding them empowers you to navigate these complexities effectively.
• Overcome Limiting Beliefs: Challenging your preconceived notions about power is the first step to harnessing its potential for positive impact.
• Examine Your Relationship with Power: What are your initial reactions to words like “power,” “influence,” and “organizational politics”? Are these reactions serving you or holding you back?
• Identify Self-Sabotaging Behaviors: Have you avoided opportunities to step up and lead because of discomfort with power?

B. Achieving Success by Breaking the Rules – The Surprising Path to Power

Sometimes, you need to break the rules to gain power.

Think about successful companies like Southwest Airlines or Whole Foods – they disrupted industries by defying conventional wisdom. The same applies to individuals. Playing it safe can make you invisible when you’re not in a position of power. Challenging the status quo strategically and thoughtfully can help you stand out and gain recognition. Beyond rule-breaking, Professor Pfeffer outlined 7 Personal Qualities That Build Power and can amplify your influence:

• Ambition: Know what you want and be relentless in pursuing it.
• Energy: Project enthusiasm, drive, and a contagious can-do attitude.
• Focus: Concentrate your efforts on high-impact activities and goals.
• Self-Knowledge: Understand your strengths, weaknesses, and how you’re perceived.
• Confidence: Project self-assurance and belief in your abilities.
• Empathy with Others: Understand and connect with the perspectives and needs of others.
• Capacity to Tolerate Conflict: Don’t shy away from disagreements; navigate them constructively.

Two compelling case studies were presented describing the art of networking and owning your narrative.

• Keith Ferrazzi and the Power of Strategic Networking: Ferrazzi’s story was a masterclass in leveraging ambition and strategic relationship-building. He didn’t just attend industry events; he actively sought introductions to key individuals, often going above and beyond to provide value and make a lasting impression. For example, while at Deloitte, he boldly requested a one-on-one meeting with the CEO, demonstrating his initiative and ambition. Ferrazzi understood that building a genuine rapport with influential people could open doors and create opportunities.
• Tadia James, Owning Your Narrative: Tadia’s career trajectory, from Wall Street to venture capital, was a powerful example of authenticity as a strategy for success. In a male-dominated industry, she chose not to conform but to embrace her unique background and perspective. Tadia recognized the power of social media, not just as a platform for self-promotion but as a tool for building a community around her work and connecting with like-minded individuals. This, combined with her unwavering self-belief, allowed her to create her path and break down barriers for others. Her message resonated deeply: success isn’t about fitting in; it’s about owning your story and using your voice to create change.

What stuck with me from these case studies were:

• Don’t be afraid to ask for what you want. The worst thing they can say is no.
• Build a strong personal brand and reputation. Success is attractive; let people know what you’re good at and what you stand for.
• Be strategic about your relationships. Invest time building connections with people who can help you achieve your goals.
• Embrace differentiation. Don’t be afraid to stand out from the crowd and showcase your unique value.
• Focus on building influence, not just being liked. People are drawn to success; influence often leads to admiration and respect.

C. Strategic Career Moves – Navigating the Hierarchy for Maximum Impact

Professor Pfeffer challenged us to view our careers less as a ladder and more as a jungle gym, where strategic moves, both laterally and upward, can dramatically accelerate our ascent. He illustrated these principles through compelling case studies of individuals who made strategic career moves to maximize their impact:

• Sadiq Gillani: Gillani’s rapid ascent in the airline industry highlighted the value of flexibility, industry specialization, finding sponsors, and actively building a personal brand through publishing, awards, and teaching.
• Zia Yusuf, From Pakistan to SAP Executive: Zia’s journey was inspiring. Despite facing cultural barriers and early academic challenges in Pakistan, he strategically navigated his career from economics and banking into the tech world, eventually becoming Executive Vice President at SAP. Key to his success were:
  • Cultural Intelligence: Zia was keen to adapt to new environments while respecting diverse perspectives.
  • Strategic Collaboration: He actively sought out and nurtured relationships with influential individuals.
  • Talent Development: Zia believed in empowering his teams. He set high standards but invested time in mentoring and developing his subordinates, fostering loyalty and a culture of excellence.
• Jason Calacanis, Building a Power Base Through Social Capital: Jason’s story was a masterclass in leveraging events, media, and a generous approach to networking. He didn’t just wait for opportunities to come; he created them. From throwing elaborate parties for investors and entrepreneurs to hosting the influential This Week in Startups podcast, he strategically positioned himself as a connector and tastemaker within the tech world. He understood that by providing value to others – whether it was a platform for showcasing startups, insightful commentary on the industry, or connections to his vast network – he could build his power base and influence the trajectory of Silicon Valley.
• Sadiq Gillani: Gillani’s rapid ascent in the airline industry highlighted the value of flexibility, industry specialization, finding sponsors, and actively building a personal brand through publishing, awards, and teaching.

So in summary, Building Influence Through Career Choices involves the following:

• Don’t Stay Too Long in One Place: Recognize when diminishing returns set in and be willing to explore new opportunities for growth and visibility.
• Align Yourself with High-Status Organizations and Individuals: Seek out roles and connections that elevate your profile and provide access to influential networks.
• Prioritize Visibility: Choose positions that offer opportunities to showcase your skills and internally and externally.
• Embrace Diverse Experiences: Broaden your skillset and perspective by taking on roles in companies of different sizes and with varying technical content.

D. Building a Powerful Personal Brand and Getting Known

Just like a strong brand gives a product or company an edge in the marketplace, a powerful personal brand can differentiate you, enhance your value, and create opportunities for advancement.

• Reputation is Currency: Your reputation is your most valuable asset. It’s what precedes you and shapes how others perceive you.
• Craft a Compelling Narrative: What do you want to be known for? What unique value do you bring to the table? Your brand should communicate your expertise, your values, and your aspirations.
• Develop a Media Strategy: Think beyond traditional resumes and LinkedIn profiles. Utilize platforms like Twitter, professional publications, conferences, and even popular media to showcase your expertise and build your visibility.

Tristan Walker: Building a Brand Rooted in Authenticity and Impact

Tristan’s story was a powerful testament to the idea that your personal brand should be an extension of your core values. His journey, from an early-stage employee at Twitter and Foursquare to founder of Walker & Company Brands, was guided by a deep commitment to creating products that addressed the needs of underserved communities. His authenticity resonated with investors, media outlets, and consumers. Some key takeaways from his approach were:

• Define Your Values: He identified six core values – courage, inspiration, respect, judgment, wellness, and loyalty – and used them as a filter for every decision, ensuring consistency in his actions and messaging.
• Embrace Your Story: He didn’t shy away from his background as a black man from Queens, New York. Instead, he leveraged his experiences and perspective to create a unique brand that differentiated him in the tech world.
• Focus on Impact: Tristan’s brand wasn’t about self-aggrandizement but about creating products that made a difference in people’s lives. This commitment to impact resonated with a wide audience and attracted support from influential individuals like Ben Horowitz.

E. Building Strategic and Effective Social and Business Networks

Your network is your net worth. Relationships are the currency of power, influencing everything from job opportunities and promotions to access to capital and talent. Find a networking style that aligns with your personality and values. Authenticity and strategic intention are powerful forces for building influence. Key Networking Principles include:

• Network with Intention: Don’t just collect business cards; be strategic about cultivating relationships with people who can support your goals and provide valuable insights.
• The Power of Personal Touch: Prioritize in-person interactions and meaningful conversations over superficial online connections.
• Embrace Weak Ties: Don’t limit yourself to your inner circle. Weak ties (acquaintances, people outside your immediate field) often provide valuable information and opportunities.
• Become a Connector: Identify “structural holes” in your network – gaps between groups that could benefit from collaboration – and bridge those gaps by making introductions and facilitating connections.

F. Focus on Executive Presence – Act and Speak with Power

How you present yourself—your body language, voice, and overall demeanour—can be just as important as your words.

• Command Attention with Your Presence: Project confidence through strong eye contact, expansive posture, and purposeful gestures. Avoid fidgeting or appearing closed off.
• Harness the Power of Your Voice: Speak clearly, confidently, and with appropriate volume. Avoid upspeak (raising your inflection at the end of sentences) and filler words that diminish your authority.
• Control the Setting: Whenever possible, hold meetings on your turf, dress for success, and avoid using notes, making you appear unprepared and less authoritative.
• Embrace Anger (Strategically): While not encouraging uncontrolled outbursts, Professor Pfeffer explained that anger, when expressed appropriately, can convey power and dominance.

G. Overcoming Opposition and Dealing With Conflict – The Importance of Persistence and Resilience

Whether you’re driving change within your organization, advocating for a new idea, or simply navigating the complexities of teamwork, you’re bound to encounter opposition.

• Expect Resistance: Don’t be surprised or discouraged when you encounter pushback. It’s a natural part of the process, especially when challenging the status quo or advocating for something new.
• Don’t Avoid Conflict: While avoiding confrontation is tempting, engaging directly with your opponents can be more effective in the long run.
• Understand Your Opponents: Take the time to understand their motivations, concerns, and perspectives. This insight can help you adjust your approach and find common ground.
• Build Coalitions: You’re more likely to succeed with a strong network of allies supporting your vision. Cultivate relationships with key stakeholders and build a coalition of support.
• Be Persistent and Resilient: Overcoming opposition often requires perseverance and unwavering determination to bounce back from failures and setbacks.
• Focus on the End Goal: Don’t get bogged down in side battles or petty disagreements. Keep your eye on the prize and prioritize actions moving you closer to your ultimate objective.

Transforming Your Career: The Journey Continues

Professor Pfeffer’s course continues to challenge and inspire me to view power dynamics through a new lens. By understanding and leveraging these principles, I’m confident we can all make more strategic choices to achieve our career aspirations and create a meaningful impact. In the meantime, feel free to share your thoughts and experiences navigating the complexities of power in the workplace. Let’s keep the conversation going!