Your New Boss: Does He (or She) Have Real Power?

by CathyG on August 8, 2009

So…your organization just got a new executive. Maybe she’s your boss…or your boss’s boss.

Just how much power does she have? Do the higher-ups have confidence in her?

  • Does he appoint someone new to a key post?
  • Does she create a new post and bring in her own candidates?
  • Does he replace somene in a key position who’s been around awhile?

These actions suggest increased power.

Does the new executive implement a new policy that creates annoyance but doesn’t contribute to the bottom line?

For instance:

  • Replace the dog-friendly workplace with a strict “no dogs in the office” policy?
  • Cancel the “Friendly Friday” summer dress code?
  • Demand more from employees without offering compensation?

That’s someone without much power who’s strutting his stuff. Even if he’s CEO, he’s got a Board watching over him and he’s nervous.

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