Power Dynamics

Question 1

What is power?

Answer 1

Power is a further central component of the dynamics underlying the interaction between the role-players in employment relation. Trade unions, the government and the employer parties draw on differential power bases in their interactions with one another. Power, in this case, can be seen as a medium through which divergent aims and interests are mediated and resolved. Power is thus closely linked to the processes of addressing and resolving conflict.

Having the direction and the means to asymmetrically enforce one’s will over others. The ability of an individual or group to control their physical and social environment; and as part of this process, the ability to influence the decisions which are and are not taken by others.

Question 2

What is legitimate power?

Answer 2

This comes from the belief that a person has the formal right to make demands, and to expect others to be compliant and obedient.

Organisational rank

Question 3

What is reward power?

Answer 3

This is the result from one person’s ability to compensate another for compliance.

Reward employees by means of pay increases, incentives, bonuses, promotions.
The reward power of unions rewards in their capacity to induce workers to increase productivity, improve the quality of their work or work longer hours, or anything employees value.

Question 4

What is coercive power?

Answer 4

This comes from the belief that a person can punish others for noncompliance.

Threaten

Question 5

What is knowledge power?

Answer 5

This is based on a person’s high levels of skill and knowledge.

Question 6

What is referent power?

Answer 6

This is the result of a person’s perceived attractiveness, worthiness and right to others’ respect.

Influence other people to be more like them.