Types of power

Types of power:

Where does power come from? Why powers make difference in organization settings? To answer those question by dividing the base or source of power into 2 general groups-

• Formal &
  

• Personal
  

Formal: based on the individual position in an organzaion. Like,

• Coecive power: Based on the ability of the power holder to punish another. Such as, If A has the coercive power over B and if B does not work then A can exercise his power by terminate him.
  

• Reward power: Based on the ability of power holderto reward another. Reward can be either financial or non financial. Such as,good work good reward.
  
  
• Legitimate power: power based on the everyone’sbelief that power holder has a legitimate right to extent and the power theperson receives of his position in the formal hierarchy organization. Such as,Army captain speak first lieutenants listen.
  

• Information power: Power that comes from access to control over information.
  

Personal power: Power that comes from individual’s unique characteristics, like

• Expert power: Power based on the power holders processing expert knowledge or influence base on special skills. Such as, Doctor’s knowledge, Tax accounts knowledge.
  

• Referent power: Power based on power receiver having identification with the power holder. If I like, respect and I admire then you can exercise power over me.
  

• Charismatic power: An extension of perfect power stemming form an individuals personality and interpersonal style, they influence other because of heroic qualities. Such as, leadership (strong voice) quality.