Welcome to “Continuous Improvement,” the podcast where we explore strategies for personal and professional growth. I’m your host, Victor, and today we’re diving into the fascinating topic of influence and power. Specifically, we’ll be reflecting on two key aspects: investing in relationships and building a reputation for performance.

But first, let’s talk about the importance of relationships in acquiring and leveraging power. As I discovered, effective managers invest a significant amount of time into building and maintaining networks. It’s not about playing office politics, but rather fostering collaboration and enhancing team effectiveness. Building rapport and communicating effectively are crucial for leading diverse teams.

One inspiring example is Sergio de Mello, a Brazilian United Nations diplomat who prioritized the dignity of citizens. By investing time in building relationships and respecting the local staff, de Mello increased his effectiveness and gained the sympathy of the people he worked with. He even learned their native language, recognizing the power of understanding culture and winning hearts.

Investing in relationships is just one side of the coin though. The other side involves building a reputation for performance. Leaders who have a track record of accomplishing tasks and achieving positive outcomes tend to acquire influence and power. It’s not enough to simply promise and say the right things; delivering quality work is essential. This focus should be on tasks with significant impact.

Take for instance Robert Moses, an American urban planner renowned for his ability to get things done. Over the years, Moses built a reputation for his exemplary leadership principles and the trust he earned. This allowed him to deliver results and gain access to levers of power.

As I reflect on these aspects, it’s clear that there’s a delicate balance between investing in relationships and being result-oriented. Successful leaders need to be both relationship-oriented and focused on achieving outcomes. By dedicating time to building relationships while simultaneously delivering tangible value, one can acquire legitimate power and influence.

So, whether you’re leading a team or striving for personal growth, remember to invest in relationships, foster collaboration, and build a reputation for performance. Balancing these elements will help you navigate the complex world of influence and power.

That’s all for today’s episode of “Continuous Improvement.” I hope you’ve gained valuable insights into the importance of relationships and results in acquiring influence and power. Join us next time as we explore new strategies for growth and development. Until then, remember to embrace continuous improvement in all aspects of your life.