Harnessing Power: A Key Strategy for Career Advancement

Starting my career fresh out of graduate school, I embarked on what I like to call the “corporate trail,” driven by a clear vision of success and a firm plan to ascend to executive roles. I meticulously studied the organizational charts of the companies I worked for, envisioning my name among the top leaders. My strategy was straightforward: work hard, outperform others, and demonstrate my capability to work harder, better, and faster than my peers. Competition was not a deterrent but a motivator. As a results-driven Black woman in Corporate America, I believed that my relentless effort would naturally lead to my advancement.

The Misconception of Hard Work

However, I soon realized that hard work, while essential, was just a small piece of the puzzle. The critical factor I needed to grasp, master, and continuously practice was understanding the dynamics of power—how it operates and how to leverage it to advance into higher leadership positions. This understanding was not just crucial at the beginning of my career but became even more vital as I climbed the corporate ladder into executive-level roles, where the stakes were higher and the risks greater.

The Reality of Power in the Workplace

Contrary to common perceptions, achieving a senior-level role does not guarantee longevity in that position. This reality is particularly stark for women of color, who often observe that their counterparts, who may not look like them, seem to achieve and maintain success more effortlessly. As a senior leader of color, understanding the intricacies of power within your organization is paramount to ensuring your sustained success.

Defining Power

Power, in the context of the workplace, is the ability to influence others. When I consult with organizations or speak to their rising female talent, especially women of color, I emphasize the importance of identifying the influential individuals within their organization. It is crucial to pay close attention not only to who these people are but also to how they get things done. This knowledge is a significant asset to career advancement, regardless of your current level or aspirations.

Building Strategic Relationships

Power stems from knowing those in power, cultivating the right relationships with them, and being able to influence them. This influence is not only instrumental in getting things done but is also a key strategy for your professional advancement. To start, seek feedback from trusted colleagues on how you are perceived and what is said about you. Use this feedback to develop your professional narrative, which is the foundation of your power and something you have control over.

Crafting Your Professional Narrative

Your professional narrative is a powerful tool that helps you leverage the right relationships and influence the outcomes you desire for your career. By understanding and mastering the concept of power, you can navigate the complexities of the corporate world more effectively and ensure your sustained success.

Expert Insights

Francine Parham, the founder and CEO of Francine Parham & Co., a professional development company, emphasizes the importance of understanding power dynamics in the workplace. Her latest book, “Please Sit Over There: How to Manage Power, Overcome Exclusion and Succeed as a Black Woman at Work,” provides valuable insights into managing power and achieving success as a woman of color in the corporate world.

Conclusion

Understanding the concept of power in your workplace is critical to your career success and ultimately your professional advancement. By identifying influential individuals, building strategic relationships, and crafting a compelling professional narrative, you can harness the power of influence to achieve your career goals.