A study investigated the variety of ways in which managers use language in sociolinguistically sensitive ways to get things done at work. Drawing on a database of over 300 interactions in a range of New Zealand workplaces, aspects of power (how things are accomplished), politeness (the importance of small talk), and solidarity (the difference humor makes in social relationships) in the workplaces are analyzed. Most of the data come from small, relatively informal workplace meetings and discussions fulfilling a wide variety of work-related purposes: planning; conveying instructions; seeking advice; checking reports; solving problems or accomplishing tasks; providing feedback; and evaluating proposals. Social talk and telephone calls and some longer meetings were also analyzed. Participant background and contextual information was also gathered. Results reveal strategies used by managers, including overt and explicit strategies that both reflect and enact the manager's authority in a variety of ways. Power, politeness, respect, collegiality, and humor were all identified as significant strategies. Contains 17 references. (MSE)