7 Ways to Span the Authority Gap
Authority builds barriers between people. You overcome by showing interest.
The person with power is responsible to move first.
If you aspire to lead, show interest.
7 Ways to Minimize the Authority Gap
People submit to authority. But the doorway to leadership swings on showing interest.
#1. Express consideration.
“Do you mind if I ask you a question?” Ask permission anyway. It signals respect.
#2. Offer support.
“What do you need from me? Or how can I help?” Remove a barrier. Help people connect with someone who could help.
Suggest alternatives when you can’t say yes. “I can’t do that, but here’s what I can do.”
#3. Explore passions.
“What’s energizing you these days?”
Energy reveals passion and values.
#4. Remember things.
“How did your son’s Little League game go?” Or “How is your mom doing?”
Make notes when people tell you something.
#5. Be proud.
“I’m thankful you’re part of the team.” Mention a specific contribution, talent, or attitude.
#6. Listen with appreciation.
- “Tell me more.”
- “What’s important to you about that?”
Benevolent curiosity earns influence.
#7. Share yourself.
- “I’m fired up about…”
- “Here’s my reasoning. What would you do if you were in my position?”
- “I’m learning…”
- “I screwed that up.”
People resist authority but respond to vulnerability.
Warning
A crammed calendar doesn’t have time for people. Influence shrivels. Position and compliance are all that remain.
Genuine interest spans the authority gap.
What step could you take today to show interest?
From 2013: Four Ways to Build Influential Connection
How to Influence Without Authority in the Workplace
A question that I also like is, “In an ideal world what would you like to see happen?” There are times that I am surprised by what they actually want and I can easily make it happen. Then there are other times I can make part of it happen and they see that I am trying to do my best and they can live with my partial action towards what they wanted in an ideal world.
The use of “Ideal world,” feels energizing and freeing. Here’s another version you might enjoy, “If things were going perfectly, what would it look like?” Or “…what would you be doing?”