Old Power vs New Power

Recently, we’ve been exploring the concept of Old Power vs New Power with a number of leadership teams. It’s sparked some healthy debate in  terms of leadership style and the implications for businesses; what do we want to be known for as leaders? where does the business sit in relation to old vs new power? does everyone on the team see it the same way? do our people see it the same way? It’s been a fascinating process.

Heimans’ TED talk eloquently brings this concept to life through examples relating to business and society, in general.

Old power works like a currency. It is held by few. Once gained, it is jealously guarded, and the powerful have a substantial store of it to spend. It is closed, inaccessible, and leader-driven. It downloads, and it captures.

New power operates differently, like a current. It is made by many. It is open, participatory, and peer-driven. It uploads, and it distributes. Like water or electricity, it’s most forceful when it surges. The goal with new power is not to hoard it but to channel it.

Read the full article at Harvard Business Review