CHAPTER 12: Power Flashcards
1
Q
Power
A
capacity that A has to influence the behavior of B so that B acts in accordance with A’s wishes.
2
Q
Differences Between Power and Authority
A
Power
* Not necessarily reflected on organizational chart
* Can be exercised up, down, or sideways
Authority
* Narrower in scope
* Prescribed by formal hierarchy and reporting relationships
* Vested in organizational positions
* Flows down the vertical hierarchy
3
Q
The Bases Of Individual Power
A
- Coercive Power - Influence gained through punishment and threats.
- Reward Power – Influence gained through control over rewards (e.g., raises, promotions)
o can result in compliance (if rewards are valued) - Legitimate Power – authority that comes from someone’s position
o neutral, can result in compliance if employees have been socialized to accept authority. - Referent Power - Stems from being well-liked.
- Expert Power - Derived from possessing valuable knowledge or skills.
4
Q
How Do People Obtain Power?
A
- Doing the Right Things
- Cultivating the Right People
Outsiders (important contacts outside the organization).
Subordinates (mentoring future leaders).
Peers (avoiding opposition from colleagues).
Superiors (mentors and sponsors who provide opportunities).
5
Q
Empowerment
A
giving employees the authority, opportunity, and motivation to take initiative and solve organizational problems.
6
Q
Influence Tactics
A
- Assertiveness (ordering, setting deadlines).
- Ingratiation (flattery, being friendly).
- Self-Promotion (showcasing achievements).
- Rationality (using logic and reason).
- Exchange (trading favors).
- Upward Appeal (seeking intervention from superiors).
- Coalition Formation (uniting with others for influence).
6
Q
How Subunits Obtain Power
A
- Scarcity – Controlling limited resources increases power.
- Uncertainty – Departments that help organizations handle uncertainty gain influence.
- Centrality – Units central to operations have more power.
- Substitutability – Non-replaceable departments hold stronger power.
