Form groups of three. One person is the influencer, one will be influenced, and one is the observer. These roles can be randomly determined. To begin, create a deck of cards for the seven tactics to be used in the exercise. These tactics are legitimacy, rational persuasion, inspirational appeals, consultation, exchange, ingratiation, and pressure (all are defined in the chapter). Only the influencer draws cards from the set, and no one else may see what has been drawn.

The influencer draws a card, and quickly formulates and acts out a strategy to use this tactic on the party being influenced. The person being influenced reacts realistically in a back-and-forth exchange over a brief period and states whether or not the tactic was effective. The observer attempts to determine which tactic is being used and which power base (coercive, reward, legitimate, expert, or referent) would reinforce this tactic. The influencer confirms or denies the approach used. Change the roles and cards throughout the rounds. Afterward, discuss the following questions.

Questions 

1. Based on your observations, which influence situation would probably have resulted in the best outcome for the person doing the influencing? 

2. Was there a good match between the tactics drawn and the specific role each person took? In other words, was the tactic useful for the influencer given his or her base of power relative to the person being influenced? 

3. What lessons about power and influence does this exercise teach you?