Chapter 3 - Managing people (parts 1-6)

Question 1

What is the definition of ‘power’

Answer 1

The ability to get things done

Question 2

Name the 5 categories of power

Answer 2

Legitimate - power from formal authority (e.g. CEO)
Referent - power from ability to persuade and influence
Expert - power of knowledge (e.g. accountant)
Reward - power to reward
Coercive - power to punish

Question 3

What is the definition of ‘authority’?

Answer 3

The right to do something

it is a type of legitimate power

Question 4

Name the 3 types of authority

Answer 4

Traditional
Rational-legal
Charismatic

Question 5

What is the definition of ‘delegation’?

Answer 5

The passing of authority from one party to another

although authority passed, the responsibility still remains with original holder

Question 6

Name the 4 types of delegation

Answer 6

Consultation
Explanation
Abdication
Custom and practice

Question 7

Name 3 conditions that Koontz and O’Donnell set for effective delegation

Answer 7

Clear definition of subordinate’s authority
Evidence that subordinate has sufficient competence to exercise authority
Allowing subordinate to exercise authority without constant intervention and checking

Question 8

What are the definitions for responsibility and accountability?

Answer 8

responsibility = obligation an individual has to fulfil given task

accountability = holding of an individual to account for the completion of tasks allocated to them

Question 9

Define empowerment

Answer 9

transferring power to those actually involved in completing a task
involves giving freedom to make decisions about HOW work should be done

Question 10

Define bureaucracy

Answer 10

Power defined very precisely with rules governing every action