Power isn’t always something that’s immediately visible or easy to attain. It’s often associated with powerful leaders, big companies, or political figures, but the truth is that anyone can wield power. Power can manifest at different levels, and understanding these levels can help you exercise more influence in both your work and personal life. In this post, I’ll share the five levels of power and offer practical tips for applying them. This is a process where you can empower yourself and take more control over the direction you're headed.

1. Power through Asking Questions: Gaining Information

Power often starts with curiosity. The first level of power is the ability to ask questions. It might seem simple, but it’s a powerful way to influence, especially in a professional setting. Asking questions not only makes you wiser, but it also gives you control over a conversation or situation.

For example, when I first started as a coach, I recall having to train a large group of professionals. Everyone had different ideas about what they wanted to learn, and there was little common ground. Instead of giving a standard presentation, I decided to ask questions. I asked the participants about their biggest challenges, what they hoped to achieve, and the obstacles they faced. By asking these questions, I gathered valuable information and got a clearer sense of how to tailor the training to better serve their needs.

By asking the right questions, you gain the information you need to be more effective. Not only do you expand your own knowledge, but you also create a sense of involvement among others, which boosts your power.

2. Power through Alliances: Leveraging Your Network

The second level of power is power through alliances. This means using your formal and informal networks to reach your goals. Whether it’s colleagues, mentors, friends, or external relationships, forming strategic alliances is crucial.

I remember working with a woman who had been in an organization for years but hadn’t made much progress. She had many ideas, but her efforts were often overshadowed by male colleagues who positioned themselves better. When we worked together, we discussed her network and how she could use it more effectively. We identified key influencers in her organization—people who weren’t in formal leadership positions but held a lot of sway. By forging these alliances, she gained the support she needed to push her ideas forward and advance her career.

Building a network isn’t just about adding contacts to your LinkedIn profile. It’s about fostering relationships that help you achieve your goals. Your allies can open doors that might otherwise remain closed and support you in moments of doubt.

3. Power through Your Ego: Positioning Yourself and Taking a Stand

The third level of power comes from using your own ego. This means actively forming your opinions, standing for something, and positioning yourself. In a world often dominated by quiet workers or people who don’t speak up, making your voice heard and being visible can greatly help you exercise influence.

When I started developing Stratego for Women, I had to make an important choice. I had to position myself not only as a coach but as an authority on women in leadership. This meant clearly voicing my beliefs, often in an environment where those ideas weren’t always well-received. For example, I had to take a public stand on the structural inequalities women often face in the workplace.

This required me to use my ego in the right way. I learned to showcase not only my expertise but also to profile myself as someone who dares to speak and act. It’s not always easy to make yourself visible, but it’s essential to realize that you can wield power by simply letting your voice be heard.

4. Power through Reflection: Learning from Mistakes and Successes

The fourth level is power through reflection. This might sound like something for spiritual or philosophical people, but it’s an essential level for anyone who wants to increase their influence. Reflection means learning not only from your mistakes but also from your successes. This is often a pitfall for women, who tend to focus mainly on what they did wrong.

I often think back to my early years as a coach when I made a critical mistake. I had a client who wasn’t adequately prepared for an important meeting. The result was that the client didn’t feel well-represented, and the conversation didn’t go well. Instead of ignoring this mistake, I chose to use it as a learning moment. What could I have done differently? How could I improve? This reflection led to more expertise and gave me the strength to refine my approach.

Reflection is also essential for recognizing your successes. How did you get where you are today? What did you do right? By being aware of this, you not only boost your self-confidence but also strengthen your effectiveness—and your power.

5. Power through a Personal Vision: Knowing What You Stand For

The fifth and final level of power is powerful: power through having a personal vision. This might be the most important level because it forms the foundation of everything you do. When you have a clear vision, you know where you’re headed, what you want to achieve, and why you’re doing it.

My personal vision, for example, is that the world becomes much better for everyone when women take more influence. This vision has driven me for 28 years to help women take more influence. This vision is at the core of my work, and every decision I make is driven by this belief. Whether it’s writing my book, giving trainings, or coaching women, this vision is the driving force behind everything I do.

Your personal vision might be very different, but it’s essential to have a clear goal. When your vision is clear, you have a compass that guides your choices. It gives you the motivation to keep going, even when things get tough, and ensures that you stay on track.

Conclusion: More Influence, More Power

Power is something you can develop by making smart choices and leveraging your strength at different levels. Whether you start by asking questions, building a network, positioning yourself, reflecting on your successes, or developing a powerful vision, each step brings you closer to more influence and success.

By applying these five levels of power, you can achieve your goals and truly make a difference in your work and life. And remember: your vision and the power you radiate can inspire others to do the same. You have the influence to lead, grow, and improve the world around you. It’s time to harness that power!

These levels of power are based on the theory of Janet Hagberg. I’ve specifically focused on how you can apply them to your work.