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Writer's pictureHarshal

Influencing Up

Book Review: 2/5 Impact On Me (Book By Allan R. Cohen, David L. Bradford)


Read more about the book here


This book discusses the power differential between senior leadership and other employees. It emphasizes the need for employees to be aware of this dynamic. It is not egalitarian. Subordinates are responsible for figuring out what information or actions they need from higher-ups and how to influence their decisions. The influencing aspect is similar to what other books have mentioned.


The book shows a national sales lead with 15 years of experience. Despite his experience, his manager questioned every decision he made. The sales lead expressed his need for autonomy in some areas but also recognized the importance of providing his manager with the necessary information. This balance of asserting one's needs while respecting the manager's role is a key point in the book.


The book reminded me of The Five Dysfunctions of a Team, Connect by Stanford, and Crucial Conversations.


I rate this book's impact on me a 2 out of 5. I did not find much new information to learn. The book had fewer stories and more explanations, making it feel like it was talking down to me rather than taking me on a journey.

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