Dr. Bernice Ledbetter of Pepperdine University’s Graziadio School of Business and Management recently wrote a piece for the Huffington Post which addressed the idea of respect vs. likability in the world of business.
Ledbetter teaches Organizational Theory and Management at Graziadio. She writes, “I’ve learned the hard way that being well liked doesn’t mean that others will adopt your point of view or vision. Being respected is the key.” The article focuses on gaining the support of key stakeholders when trying to instate new ideas, concepts or practical changes in the workplace.
She points out the importance of gaining insight into the needs and wants of stakeholders and then forming a “compelling story” which will persuade others to adopt one’s perspective. Ledbetter goes on to stress the magnitude of forming alliances over friendships. “Allies are willing to listen, give you feedback and inside information,” she writes. “They can effectively articulate your cause when you’re not in the room and explain political motivations you may have overlooked. This is very different than having friends. Building alliances and in turn respect is about establishing trust, paying attention to what others want and using that foundation to leverage your power.”
Ledbetter formed the Center for Women in Leadership at Pepperdine. The center reaches across each of the university’s five schools: the School of Law, the School of Public Policy, the Graduate School of Education, the Seaver College and Graziadio. It aims to prepare women staff, faculty and students for positions of leadership through mentorship, skills development and research.