Sophisticated political leaders know that influence begins with understanding others concerns or interests.

Jerry Rawlings of Ghana positioned himself as a simple man of the people. He held power for over ten years, though he is hesitant to admit it. His participation in publicized farm plantings and other photo opportune times shows his highlight his attempts at crafting a popular image.

“I do not wield power, my dear sir. I am just an ordinary citizen. Like any other citizen of this country. With the same yearn…with the same crave that any man, anywhere, shares. The same aspirations…to realize the creative potentials in any being.” (Sankara, 0m38)

Bolman, L. G., & Deal, T. E. (2003). Reframing organizations: Artistry, choice, and leadership. San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass. (Print)

Thomas Sankara. “Jerry Rawlings.” TV5MONDE. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2OdkhmjQnEg?t=0m28s .