Influence

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/wharton-influence

Introduction

**Course Review and Recommendation: ’Influence’ on Coursera** In an age where effective collaboration and persuasive communication are paramount for success in any organization, the Coursera course 'Influence' offered by Professor Cade Massey of the Wharton School is a true gem. This online course delves into the intricacies of influence, persuasion, and the dynamics of power within organizational structures, making it an essential learning experience for professionals across various domains. ### Course Overview The 'Influence' course explores the fundamental aspects of what it means to be influential. It seeks to unravel questions surrounding how to persuade others towards common goals, leverage power strategically, and ultimately, enhance one's ability to achieve organizational objectives. Professor Massey, a distinguished educator and expert in the field, provides students with a comprehensive framework designed to foster meaningful influence while navigating the complexities of interpersonal and organizational relationships. ### Syllabus Breakdown The course is divided into four detailed modules, each focusing on different elements that contribute to building influence: #### **Module 1: Defining Influence** The journey begins with an exploration of the concept of influence itself. This module prompts participants to weigh the benefits of proactivity against political acumen, helping them find the balance necessary for successful organizational navigation. Learners analyze power structures and dynamics, enhancing their situational awareness and agency. By the end of this module, students will be equipped to diagnose and improve processes within their organizations using their newfound influence. #### **Module 2: Social Networks and Relationships** Network dynamics play a crucial role in achieving goals. This module emphasizes the importance of understanding various types of social networks. Students will learn how to assess the value and drawbacks of network structures and the significance of authentic generosity in building reciprocal relationships. By examining alliance-building strategies, participants will develop the skills needed to create strong coalitions that can lead to mutually beneficial outcomes. #### **Module 3: Persuasive Tactics and Rhetoric** In Module 3, learners build on their foundational knowledge by honing their persuasive skills. Utilizing historical examples from Aristotle to modern principles, this segment focuses on the attributes that make ideas memorable. Participants will engage with the Leverage Inventory survey to assess their influence tactics, learning to implement various power strategies effectively. By the end of this module, students will possess a toolkit of persuasive approaches applicable to various contexts. #### **Module 4: Ethics of Persuasion** The final module tackles the often-overlooked ethical considerations surrounding influence and persuasion. By reflecting on personal biases and dilemmas, learners gain insights into making ethically sound decisions while utilizing their power. This segment emphasizes striking a balance between efficacy and integrity, guiding students toward sustainable influence that aligns with their values and those of their organizations. ### Why You Should Take This Course If you aspire to enhance your leadership skills, improve your ability to collaborate effectively, or increase your persuasive communication skills, the 'Influence' course on Coursera is an excellent choice. Here are several reasons why this course stands out: 1. **Expert Instruction**: Learn from Professor Cade Massey, a renowned figure in the field of influence and organizational behavior. 2. **Practical Application**: The course is designed not just for theory; you’ll acquire tangible skills that you can apply immediately in your professional life. 3. **Diverse Learning Experience**: Through a combination of lectures, case studies, and assessments, you’ll engage in a rich learning process that supports varied learning styles. 4. **Networking Opportunities**: Engage with a global community of professionals, allowing you to share insights and expand your professional network. 5. **Ethical Framework**: In today’s climate, understanding the ethical dimensions of influence is crucial, and this course addresses these complexities thoroughly. ### Conclusion In conclusion, 'Influence' is not just a course; it’s a transformative experience that equips you with the necessary skills to be more effective in your organizational endeavors. Whether you're an aspiring leader, a seasoned manager, or an individual looking to improve your interpersonal skills, this course is highly recommended. Commit to mastering the art of influence, and you'll find yourself navigating your professional landscape with greater confidence, ethical integrity, and strategic prowess. Enroll today, and unlock your potential to influence the world around you!

Syllabus

Module 1

In this module, we’ll begin by defining influence. You’ll weigh the pros and cons of proactivity and political ability, and find the right balance to get any job done within your organization. You’ll learn different models of power structures and dynamics, and discover the importance of flexibility, situational awareness, and agency. By the end of this module, you’ll be better able to analyze organizational structure, recognize processes within your organization that need improvement, and use your power of influence to optimize these processes.

In this module, you’ll examine social networks and relationships, and learn how they can help you accomplish your organizational goals. You’ll be able to differentiate between dense and disconnected networks, and weigh the benefits and costs of diversification within your networks. Then you’ll learn about both successful strategies and common pitfalls in cultivating a network, and see how authentic generosity will build reciprocity in your networks and vice versa. You’ll also explore coalitions and how alliances between parties with different perspectives can be very effective and efficient in achieving mutual goals. By the end of this module, you’ll learn effective strategies for networking, coalition-building, and leveraging, and will be able to form strong alliances and relationships both inside and outside your organization.

This module was designed to help you develop your persuasive tactics and rhetoric to increase your influence. By discussing historical examples of classical principles of persuasion—from Aristotle to the six SUCCES factors—you’ll learn what makes ideas memorable and be able to craft effective messages of your own. You’ll assess your own strengths and weaknesses in influence tactics by taking the Leverage Inventory survey. You’ll also explore statistical analysis examining the relative effectiveness of soft, hard, and smart power strategies. By the end of this module, you’ll be able to employ a toolbox of approaches to gain power and influence, and be prepared to bring the right leveraging skills to any situation.

In this module, you’ll examine the ethical implications of persuasion and the responsibilities that come with having a powerful leveraging toolkit. By looking at examples of our own unconscious biases, you’ll gain a better understanding of where your perspective and values stand. You’ll learn how to find the right balance in making the necessary tradeoffs while exerting sustainable influence. Through exploring different hypothetical scenarios in the Hard Questions Survey, you’ll form strategies to avoid common pitfalls while leveraging influence. By the end of this module, you’ll have a deeper understanding of the ethics of persuasion and influence, and be able to make difficult decisions that are more aligned with you and your organization’s values.