Problem:
I think both power and politics can be used ethically. What I really liked about my favorite boss ever was that she used her position to train and empower us to work harder and learn more. She did this by giving praise when we were learning something new and applying it to our positions. She would also use constructive criticism mixed with praise to help correct us. If correcting a teller error, she would also compliment the personal interaction with the client if it was well done. She used her legitimate power and referent power with us while influencing us with a mix of all 5 influencing types depending on the situation. I found another TEDx talk that I really enjoyed, "It's Not Manipulation, It's Strategic Communication" by Keisha Brown. Her talk brings to life the example in the book of how to influence using Rational Persuasion. In her speech, she lays out the 4 points you need to use. Identify the Need, Know your Audience, Communicate the Value, and Express the Need. She breaks it down with a personal and professional example of using this technique to achieve win-win situations.