Final answer:
Kent is engaging in an influence tactic called exchange, promising future rewards for current loyalty. Strategic leaders use incentives, establish trust through personal connections, and leverage their access to power to influence others and gain followers.
Step-by-step explanation:
Kent appears to be utilizing an influence tactic known as exchange. This is because he is promising future rewards in terms of salaries and benefits for loyalty and support as he climbs the corporate ladder. To increase the odds that individuals will faithfully follow them, a strategic political leader increases incentives and rewards for loyalty, while raising the costs of defection. They may utilize resources to enhance visibility and recognition, as in the case of Members of Congress using official resources for self-advertising. Furthermore, guanxi networks and the exchange of gifts and favors can establish trust and facilitate securing employment or favors, exemplifying the power of personal connections over formal qualifications.
Additionally, this exchange tactic can be linked to the relationship between interest groups and candidates, where campaign support is often traded for the opportunity to influence legislation. In the business and political world, access to power often involves the strategic use of resources, whether in the form of campaign contributions, network connections or material incentives.
Overall, strategic leadership often entails cultivating personal power and trust, which can sometimes overshadow skills or formal qualifications and are heavily influenced by existing social structures and personal relationships.