A520.9.5.RB_FogartyShawn

            If I were to list the determinants of personal power in order as I see them for myself expertise would lead followed by effort. Next comes personal attraction and lastly is legitimacy. I consider a lot of my personal power to come from my expertise at work. I’ve been through a lot of training and served on several deployments so my level of experience far supersedes that of my peers and many of my bosses. I also place a lot of effort towards whatever mission I’m tasked with completing. We have a saying, “My mission, my men, myself” to gauge of priorities. Although personal attraction and legitimacy come up last they are not in the distance by any means. I am generally friendly and personable. Overall, I am comfortable gaining power within my organization.

            I would say that I do embody many likable characteristics. I am open, honest, and personable.  I consider loyalty to be very important in the way of business and even personal relationships. Along with loyalty comes trust. I don’t however provide unconditional positive regard and acceptance. I think of as “fluff” and I don’t like “fluffing” or “fluffers.” You don’t have to always accept a person, if they make a critical mistake that jeopardizes the mission or sanctity of the organization. This is especially true if they did something for personal gain.  Lastly, I place a lot of importance in social events, interactions, and activities. I wouldn’t consider myself a “social butterfly” but I do enjoy going out with the guys from time to time.
            Relationships are critical within an organization. I always maintain open and honest communications with my superiors. I don’t hesitate with bad news and am not afraid to ruffle a few feathers. Bad news does not get better with time. I believe the open dialogue with my superiors enables me to fully understand the organization objectives but more importantly what his visions includes. My previous organization I considered grand in the way of relations with my boss. We would routinely get together at our organizations bar and throw back a glass of whiskey or two, or three, or more. This was our way to relax but still tackle issues. My current boss is not much of a whiskey fan and we generally tackle everything between nine and five. Overall, open and honest communication is key in whichever style and method works between you and your boss.