The Cambridge Dictionary defines “read the room” as “to be or become aware of the opinions and attitudes of a group of people that you are talking to.” In the workplace, your ability to read the room for spoken and unspoken signals can determine your ability to reach your career potential.
The foundational step to assessing any situation is understanding the formal and informal power dynamics at play. You must be able to recognize the nuances of the organization you’re working for, gather insight into those around you, and be aware of hidden signals hiding under seemingly superficial communications.
Let’s quickly quiz your knowledge and examine the basics of successfully reading power dynamics in any room.
1. Power dynamics within an organization are influenced by _______________.
- The organization’s culture
- Formal job titles
- One’s level of connectedness and popularity within the company
- Individual access to resources
- All of the above
The correct answer is that a myriad of factors influence E. Power dynamics and, therefore, constantly shift. To read the room with accuracy, you must consider how power is gained, lost, or retained over time.
For example, if you notice that someone whose power and influence seem mismatched with their formal title, ask yourself why. Are they well-connected? Do they have a skill set that makes them particularly valuable? There is usually more going on than what is stated plainly.
2. How can you better understand the unspoken power dynamics at play in your organization? (Select all that apply.)
- By acutely observing both what is and, more importantly, what is not being said.
- By asking outright, in the moment, to the individual in question if there is an unspoken power dynamic at play.
- Setting up a meeting with a member of the high-level leadership will help discuss this.
- By bringing it up to a trusted peer who might have more insight.
- By observing shifts in the behavior and attitudes of others.
Answers A, D, and E are all tactful ways to hone your deductive skills. As illustrated in choices A and E, observation is one of the best research methods you have for understanding power. Palpable shifts are a wealth of information for the observer. For instance, noticeable changes in how a person is treated, or widespread changes in attitude toward a particular idea could provide insight into the balance of power and influence.
Remember, others are showing you their relationship to power and influence. You’re simply tapping into your resourcefulness when you watch, listen, and learn. Another resource, mentioned in choice D, also draws on others’ observations. Discussing team dynamics with a trusted peer can provide fresh insights and perspectives you might not have gathered on your own.
3. Scenario: Your direct supervisor has just returned to work after taking some time off because of the loss of a loved one. Although it’s been over a week since their return, they have yet to respond to your requests for a meeting to discuss a project that you’re passionate about. What do you think is likely the underlying reason for your supervisor’s avoidance?
- They don’t think your project is worth their time.
- They are dissatisfied with your work performance and, therefore, don’t want you to spend time on additional projects.
- They’re trying their best to catch up while still dealing with some level of grief and don’t have the bandwidth to discuss something new yet.
- They just don’t like you; looking back, it doesn’t seem like they ever have.
The most likely answer is C. This scenario demonstrates the need to consider what might be going on with other people when trying to decipher a situation. A common mistake, especially for professionals who are still establishing themselves, is to automatically think that a situation is happening directly from their actions.
This is a natural human response and indicates a desire for control. The mind finds comfort in saying, “If I do this, then this will change.” This belief provides an action that can lead to your desired outcome. But the reality is that it’s not always about your performance or personality. It’s critical to keep this perspective to successfully read any room.
By developing your skill of reading the room, you will be better prepared for whatever comes your way. Staying observant and unbiased allows you to make informed decisions and navigate the power dynamics in a way that will fuel your growth rather than hinder it.