Authority In The Workplace: Video Analysis

Getting others to do the things you want them to do is all in the way you influence them. Influence is defined as “changing someone’s behavior” (Rykrsmith, 2011, para. 2). As seen in the video, there are tactics that can be used to influence people which include reciprocity, scarcity, authority, consistency, liking, and consensus. Out of the six influence tactics, the authority and consensus tactics stand out the most in my workplace. Of course, authority is used everywhere. Authority is seen as people will follow credible, knowledgeable experts (Cialdini & Martin, 2012). Typically, there is an awareness of commitment and obligation to people who are seen as being authoritative in their positions (6 Influence tactics,n.d.). In my particular department, there is a sense of authority to our supervisor as we respect her and know what is expected from each of us. Our supervisor takes the time to know us on a personal level which goes a long way in the workplace. …show more content…
This tactic helps by sharing with the individuals whose behavior you are attempting to influence how many other individuals are already doing what you are requesting them to do (Ahearn, 2009). Since most individuals like to follow the crowd, sharing with the individuals what others like them are doing helps to influence them as well (Ahearn, 2009). I see this tactic used in my workplace sometimes to encourage others to follow suit with what the rest of the department is doing or accomplishing. Most of the time, everyone wants to feel like they are pulling their weight in the