Book Summary7 Rules of Power, by Jeffrey Pfeffer

1-Page Summary1-Page Book Summary of 7 Rules of Power

In 7 Rules of Power, Jeffrey Pfeffer argues that power is a crucial tool for achieving success and making a difference in the world. He contends that power is often misunderstood and underutilized, and he provides a set of rules for acquiring and wielding it effectively. Pfeffer also challenges conventional wisdom about power, arguing that authenticity can be a barrier to gaining power and that displaying anger can make you seem more powerful.

Pfeffer is a professor of...

7 Rules of Power Summary The Core Principles of Power

Next, we’ll cover the nature and value of influence and some counterintuitive strategies for acquiring it.

The Characteristics and Importance of Authority

First, Pfeffer asserts that power is an instrument that can be wielded for beneficial or bad purposes.

(Shortform note: Some thinkers disagree with Pfeffer’s assertion that power is an instrument. In On Violence, political theorist Hannah Arendt argues that power is fundamentally different from the ability to control others.)

He also argues that you need power to achieve goals and make changes. To create impact, you need to put yourself and your allies in influential roles, allowing your actions to achieve outsized results. Power can allow you to maximize your skills and abilities, and when combined with performance, it will propel you farther than either one by itself. Furthermore, possessing power can improve your effectiveness in getting things done, and it can also enhance your physical and mental health, since job control and your status in society influence your well-being. Power can also boost your happiness, as it's associated with increased happiness.

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7 Rules of Power Summary The Seven Rules in Detail

Now, let’s examine Pfeffer’s seven principles for acquiring power. First, he advises you to create a strong brand. A robust personal image helps you stand out in a competitive field and increases your believability, relationships, and influence. It should be coherent, combining elements of your private and work life to show why you’re distinctively suited for a particular role or industry. To develop your reputation, you should associate with prestigious people and groups.

(Shortform note: Pfeffer’s advice to create a strong brand by combining your private and work life and associating with prestigious people and groups can backfire. Alice E. Marwick and danah boyd explain that when you merge your private and work life, you risk “context collapse,” where something you intended for one audience is seen by another. This can damage your reputation and opportunities. For example, a joke you make to friends could be misinterpreted by colleagues or superiors, leading to professional consequences.)

Second, Pfeffer encourages you to pursue networking tirelessly. Your connections and their number influence your power and...

7 Rules of Power Summary Applying and Sustaining Power

Now, we’ll discuss how to apply and sustain power by exploring how to overcome barriers to application and build durable power through consistent practice.

Overcoming Barriers to Application

To apply power, Pfeffer argues that you must overcome societal norms and preconceived ideas. These assumptions, often based on gender, ethnicity, or class, can limit your conduct and ambitions. For example, there is often an expectation for women to be less ambitious and more collaborative, while individuals from less privileged backgrounds may feel uncomfortable employing politics to advance their careers. These expectations can hinder you from pursuing influence and achievement. To succeed, you must stand out, advocate for yourself, and use strategies that may go against what others expect of you.

The Critique of Individualized Power Strategies

Some critics argue that the advice to stand out, advocate for yourself, and use strategies that go against gender, ethnicity, or class expectations places the burden of overcoming systemic barriers on individuals rather than addressing the root causes of inequality. In her article “[The Rise of Neoliberal...

Shortform Exercise: Exploring the Nature of Authority and Influence

Consider a scenario where you need to influence others to support a community project you're passionate about. Reflect on how authority and political skills can impact your approach.

How might wielding power positively or negatively affect your ability to achieve your goals in this situation?