Do you embrace your authority?
By Laura MacLeod, LMSW
When I lead workshops and train professionals on how to lead meetings, I state that authority and confidence are essential. Women often shy away from calling themselves an ‘authority’ or referring to their style as ‘authoritative.’ The word feels too rigid, bringing up images of demanding, screaming bosses: My way or the highway!
Some women say they have been encouraged to take a more empathic and kind role as a leader, while others state they have clearly been discouraged from being ‘too strong.’
The dictionary defines authority as: power to influence based on knowledge or expertise. The word ‘power’ is charged for women. While they may recognize that they have power (as a supervisor or manager in the workplace) women are reluctant to claim it. Again, connotations are negative: abuse of power, power hungry, wielding power recklessly. I point out that these words describe an authoritarian: (one who) enforces strict obedience at the expense of personal freedom. Nobody is advocating that you become an authoritarian, but you need to become an authority if you want to lead effectively.
The fact is, as a manager you are in charge. This means you have power to influence your staff and you have knowledge and expertise to use as tools. Your staff needs and expects you to use your authority. Here’s how:
1- Use Of Self
Think about what you have to offer and use your personality to your advantage. You can (and should) have a sense of humor, show empathy and kindness and still be authoritative. There is no need to transform yourself or take on a coat of armor. Confidence in who you are and what you have to offer will serve you well.
2- Be Purposeful And Clear
This is crucial to get buy-in from your staff. State reasons and expectations for tasks, projects and meetings. People need to know WHY (What’s in it for me?) if you want them to invest. At meetings, state this clearly and then go on to explain the agenda, expectations and time frame. With a structure in place, you can move through with everyone on the same page.
3- Be Direct And Decisive
Your staff is looking to you to make decisions. If the issue is one where you want/need their feedback, invite them to discuss and weigh in. However, if you can’t reach consensus or you feel their ideas are not practical or won’t be approved, you’ll need to make the decision. State this and explain your reasoning (Great ideas, but seems like we can’t agree. We can’t do X -this is why) and make the final decision. Workers will appreciate this- nobody wants to waste time in a prolonged discussion that will clearly not be resolved. This is when it is time for the leader to take charge.
Women in leadership positions may be uncomfortable with authority, but it is essential that they find a way to embrace it. Your staff is looking to you for leadership, whether you like it or not! They need and expect you to provide guidance, direction and information. Use your personality and style to take charge- and try to enjoy it!
Bio
With a background in social work and 2 decades of experience as a union worker, Laura MacLeod created “From The Inside Out Project®,” with all levels of employment in mind to assist in maintaining a harmonious workplace. She is an adjunct professor in graduate studies at the Hunter College Silberman School of Social Work and leads training sessions for social work professionals at The Coalition for Behavioral Health and Institute for Community Living in New York City. MacLeod speaks on conflict resolution, problem solving, and listening skills at conferences across the country.