Sarah Meyers McGinty, in her new book Power Talk: Using Language to Build Authority and Influence, argues that while the simple lingual act of declaring power does not help a powerless person gain influence, well-considered linguistic techniques and maneuvers do. McGinty does not dispute the importance of factors such as expertise and ability in determining stature, but argues persuasively that these power determinants amount to little for a person unable to communicate effectively. Surveys have shown that managers consider effective communication skills the most critical characteristic in determining promotability in the workplace.
McGinty divides speech into two categories: "language from the center" and "language from the edge." In McGinty's words, "Language from the center makes a speaker sound like a leader." McGinty suggests that such language is not only for those already in powerful positions, but also for those of lower ranks who wish to gain more power and credibility. A speaker using language from the center directs rather than responds, makes statements rather than asks questions, uses experience persuasively, and maintains an air of impersonality in the workplace. McGinty's assertions that the use of such language can alter or create a new balance of power are supported by studies that show that people accept leadership from those they consider experts.
Language from the edge stands in stark contrast to language from the center. Language from the edge is exploratory, inclusive, deferential, and collaborative. A speaker using language from the edge responds rather than directs, asks questions, strives to make others feel heard, and avoids argument. Language from the center strives to claim authority for a speaker, while language from the edge strives to build consensus and trust. McGinty argues that true power comes from a deep understanding of when to use which style and the ability to use both as necessary.
What distinguishes McGinty's discussion of effective communication is her focus on communication skills as a way of gaining power; by contrast, most workplace communication theory focuses on communication skills as a way of preventing misunderstandings, avoiding conflict, and fostering interpersonal relationships. McGinty, however, holds that language not only helps maintain relationships but also lends authority.
The primary focus of the passage is on which of the following?
a)demonstrating the effectiveness of a certain framework in the business world
b)explaining the advantages and disadvantages of a proposed approach to business communication
c)analyzing the details of a controversial theory of business
d)presenting a new model of business communication
e)articulating the major differences between two types of language
McGinty divides speech into two categories: "language from the center" and "language from the edge." In McGinty's words, "Language from the center makes a speaker sound like a leader." McGinty suggests that such language is not only for those already in powerful positions, but also for those of lower ranks who wish to gain more power and credibility. A speaker using language from the center directs rather than responds, makes statements rather than asks questions, uses experience persuasively, and maintains an air of impersonality in the workplace. McGinty's assertions that the use of such language can alter or create a new balance of power are supported by studies that show that people accept leadership from those they consider experts.
Language from the edge stands in stark contrast to language from the center. Language from the edge is exploratory, inclusive, deferential, and collaborative. A speaker using language from the edge responds rather than directs, asks questions, strives to make others feel heard, and avoids argument. Language from the center strives to claim authority for a speaker, while language from the edge strives to build consensus and trust. McGinty argues that true power comes from a deep understanding of when to use which style and the ability to use both as necessary.
What distinguishes McGinty's discussion of effective communication is her focus on communication skills as a way of gaining power; by contrast, most workplace communication theory focuses on communication skills as a way of preventing misunderstandings, avoiding conflict, and fostering interpersonal relationships. McGinty, however, holds that language not only helps maintain relationships but also lends authority.
The primary focus of the passage is on which of the following?
a)demonstrating the effectiveness of a certain framework in the business world
b)explaining the advantages and disadvantages of a proposed approach to business communication
c)analyzing the details of a controversial theory of business
d)presenting a new model of business communication
e)articulating the major differences between two types of language
