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  • July – August 2010
  • Column
  • Harvard Business Review

Powerlessness Corrupts

By: Rosabeth M. Kanter
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Abstract

Powerlessness damages organizations--especially in the middle ranks, says HBR columnist Rosabeth Moss Kanter. Hemmed in by rules and treated as unimportant, people get even with management by overcontrolling their own turf. Kanter urges leaders to give employees opportunities to make meaningful contributions, because small wins along those lines can propel big changes.

Keywords

Employee Relationship Management; Opportunities; Behavior; Motivation and Incentives; Power and Influence

Citation

Kanter, Rosabeth M. "Powerlessness Corrupts." Harvard Business Review 88, nos. 7-8 (July–August 2010).
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About The Author

Rosabeth M. Kanter

General Management
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  • How Miami Can Become a Global Climate Solutions Hub By: Rosabeth M. Kanter
  • Colette Phillips and GetKonnected: Creating Inclusive Ecosystems By: Rosabeth M. Kanter and Ai-Ling Jamila Malone
  • The Case for Having a Boring CEO By: Rosabeth Moss Kanter
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