Though the words "'Cause I said so!" may carry some clout on the home front, authoritative power is rarely as influential in the workplace, according to one of the newest programs being offered at the Xavier Leadership Center. In the popular day-long course, "Influencing Without Authority," participants discover that the "power of influence" is in fact an oxymoron, considering the two nouns- power and influence- represent opposing ends of the persuasive spectrum.
The program, already receiving rave reviews, is designed to train business professionals at all levels more effective, and less imposing, methods of leadership using enhanced interpersonal communication skills.
Central to the program is the three-member ensemble of facilitators led by Rocco Dal Vera, an internationally renowned voice and speech expert and Professor of Theatre at the University of Cincinnati's College Conservatory of Music. Dal Vera's professional acting background first enlightened him to the "fundamental principles of influence," as they impact an audience.
"In order to engage the emotions of an audience, an actor needs to be working from a deep personal truth," says Dal Vera, who explains that it is this level of authenticity in communication which is key to influencing others, both onstage and off.
In light of the fact that "all the world's a stage", Dal Vera and his team, including actress and corporate spokesperson Denise Dal Vera and award-winning actress and training facilitator Annie Fitzpatrick, believe that the application of the same time-honored principles of persuasion used on the stage are every bit as effectual in the workplace.
"We don't teach gimmicks; we change thinking," says Dal Vera, who believes that the ability to authentically and effectively connect with others has an added benefit: "We are never as creative, exciting or productive as when we are fully engaged."
Offered to both the general public (three sessions this fall and more planned in the spring) and as an in-house experience for company teams, XLC's "Influencing Without Authority" program brings to light (and into the workplace) a philosophy embodied in the insightful words of an old proverb . . . "It is said that power lasts ten years and influence not more than one hundred."
There's a lot to be said for staying power.
Writer: Alyce Vilines
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