Page 236 - A Banker Down the Rabbit Hole

phrase "Influence may work when authority fails". This, I studied while
doing a course on "Human Resource Management and Organization
Behavior" of my Diploma in Management Program.

I thought of trying to use my influence of being his teacher rather than
my authority as Head of the Credit Department as even the bigger
authority of the Chief of the branch had failed to resolve it because of
multiplicity of unions. I asked my attendant to call the gentleman. He
came and greeted me "Good morning, Guruji, we are meeting after many
years". I reciprocated saying "Good morning, Mr. Babbar and nice meeting
you. I had been posted at Hong Kong for 3 years and have just joined
this branch." I also asked about his wellbeing. He assured me of all help
in case I needed any.

I then told him smilingly that the opportunity for your help has arrived
already. I narrated the immediate issue of fan put in door way of my cabin
and nobody doing anything and also scaring me with repercussions if I
took any action. He immediately called my assistant and told him to move
the fan out of the doorway of my cabin. The assistant hesitated but the
leader told him not to worry and he would handle the other union. He
stated that it was not the way we should behave. He went to the staff
and counseled him not to make any issue out of moving of this fan as he
would create a space for this fan the next day. I thanked him for the
prompt solution. He assured me any further help also if needed. So, I
practically found the influence working when authority had failed in this
situation.

Insights from the episode

Influence may work when authority has failed to evoke response.

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