“How to Figure Out the Power Dynamics in a New Job,” by Nihar Chhaya

 Fri 08 Jan 2022

Identify the Power Players at Your New Company

When you join a new organization, figuring out who holds power and why is about a lot more than looking at people’s job titles. (1) Start by identifying who exercises different modes of power—for instance, colleagues whom everyone seems to know, whose ideas always get approved, or who always seem to have others seeking them out for help or advice. You may also want to find out who’s been promoted fast as an indicator of success. (2) Next, recognize that the power landscape is dynamic. As business priorities or circumstances change, so do the colleagues who have influence. Figure out who's rising with the changing tides. (3)  Finally, set yourself apart and get on the radar of some of these influential colleagues. To do this, employ a humble desire to learn from them, mixed with an energetic desire to offer value—with no immediate agenda. Eventually, it will pay off.

This tip is adapted from “How to Figure Out the Power Dynamics in a New Job,” by Nihar Chhaya