Power Flashcards
Define Power
The ability to mobilize resources to accomplish work in an organization
Define Influence
The use of power
Define Interpersonal (Social) Power
an ability or capacity, like potential energy; capability available to someone
What are the 5 interpersonal bases of power?
Legitimate, Reward, Coercive, Expert, Referent
Define Legitimate Power
ability of agent to change target’s behavior because of social position or mutual agreement; formal authority, limited by position/agreement’s nature
Examples of legitimate power
approval, assignment, appraisal
What conditions support the use of legitimate power?
based on rank or vertical organizational orientation, necessity, clarity, within defined limits, guided by rules
Resources controlled by legitimate power
equipment, material, money, promotion, information
Define Coercive Power
ability of agent to change target’s behavior because of capacity to withdraw positive outcomes or give negative ones
What conditions support the use of coercive power?
warnings with consequences, consistent & uniform application, fit impact to behavior, swift, private
Define Reward Power
ability of agent to change target’s behavior because of capacity to give positive outcomes or withdraw negative ones
What conditions support the use of reward power?
high value to target, seen as having supply, consistent application
What is “Resource Theory”
the idea that power is achieved by the control of social resources
What are some social resources that provide power?
Money, Goods, Services, Information, Status, Affection, Time
Define Expert Power
ability of agent to change target’s behavior because agent has access to or control over information valuable to target
