- Power is the ability or capacity to influence or control the actions, behaviours, and decisions of others, even in the face of opposition. It often involves the use of authority, resources, or relationships to achieve a desired outcome.
- It is a critical concept in leadership, management, and social relationships.
- Power is a complex and multifaceted concept that plays a role in all areas of life.
- Power in organizations refers to the capacity of individuals or groups to influence others within the workplace, using formal authority, expertise, or personal characteristics to direct behaviour and decision-making toward organizational goals.
Types of power
Legitimate power
This type of power comes from oneās formal position or authority within an organization or hierarchy. It is based on the title or role held by an individual and the associated rights, responsibilities, and privileges.
Coercive power
Coercive power is based on the ability to impose penalties, punishments, or negative consequences for non-compliance or disobedience. It relies on fear, bullying, or the threat of punishment to control othersā behaviour.
Referent power
Referent power arises from the admiration, respect, or identification that others have for an individual. It is based on personal charisma, and likability.
Expert power
Expert power comes from possessing specialized knowledge, skills, or expertise that others do not have. People follow because they recognize and respect the personās expertise.
Difference between Leadership and Power
| Aspect | Leadership | Power |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | The ability to influence and inspire others to achieve common goals or objectives. | The ability to control or influence others behaviours, actions or decisions. |
| Focus | Focuses on inspiring and guiding individuals or groups towards shared objectives. | Focuses on controlling or directing others to comply with oneās wishes or commands |
| Source | Derived from personal qualities, behaviours and influence. | Derived from formal authority, position or control over resources. |
| Nature | Involves collaboration, empowerment and relationship building | Can be unilateral, coercive or based on formal hierarchy. |
| Approach | Emphasizes vision, communication and empowerment | Emphasizes control, coercion and manipulation |
| Outcome | Results in voluntary commitment and engagement from followers. | May result in compliance or resistance from subordinates. |