Power, For All

More about the book

Power is not just for the elite; it is accessible to everyone. Many misunderstand power, viewing it as something tied to personality or wealth, often associating it with corruption. However, researchers Julie Battilana and Tiziana Casciaro reveal that power is fundamentally about influencing others' behavior, stemming from access to valued resources that anyone can possess, regardless of income or status. Their work presents a democratized vision of power, showing how individuals with less authority can challenge entrenched hierarchies through agitation, innovation, and orchestrating change. They guide readers in mapping their workplace dynamics to identify key influencers, strategizing for sustainable power shifts, and understanding the five motivations for seeking power: money, status, autonomy, achievement, and morality. Through engaging storytelling, they illustrate these concepts, such as Donatella Versace's leadership after her brother's death, lessons for social movements from youth climate activists, and strategies for managers to build trust with skeptical employees. Ultimately, this work demystifies the mechanisms of power, offering a practical guide for navigating relationships, organizations, and society effectively.