Chapter 5: Power and Leadership

Key Concepts

• Power and Leadership: Interdependent but not interchangeable. Leadership is impossible without power, but power alone doesn’t make someone a leader.
• Definition of Power: The ability to influence others. Power itself is neutral; its use can be positive or negative.

Common Misconceptions

• Many view power negatively (e.g., forceful, controlling). This is a limited perspective; understanding various types of power is crucial.

Types of Power

1. Coercive Power

   • Ability to punish or create negative consequences.
   • Examples: Punishments for crimes, reducing pay for absenteeism, taking away car keys for breaking curfew.

2. Reward Power

   • Ability to provide positive outcomes or rewards.
   • Examples: Bonuses, raises, special treats for meeting quotas or improved performance.

3. Legitimate Power

   • Power vested in a position, not a person.
   • Examples: Presidential powers, teacher's authority, work supervisors.
   • Supported by organizational structure (e.g., university, government).

4. Expert Power

   • Derives from possessing special skills or expertise.
   • Examples: Piano teacher, mechanic fixing a car.
   • Differentiates from legitimate power as it is skill-specific.

5. Referent Power

   • Power based on admiration or desire to emulate.
   • Examples: Celebrity endorsements, admired bosses, older siblings, or relatives.
   • Can co-exist with other types of power (e.g., legitimate, expert).

6. Information Power

   • Possession and control of information others want to know.
   • Examples: Knowing about layoffs and deciding when and whom to tell.

7. Ecological Power

   • Control over physical environment and resources.
   • Examples: Managing technology, workplace layout, equipment funding.

Important Concepts

• Chart (page 143): Costs and benefits of different types of power, circumstances for use, pros and cons.
• Exam Preparation: Be able to define each type of power, provide examples, and understand differences (especially between similar types like legitimate versus expert, and coercive versus reward).

Powerless Talk

• Definition: Language that conveys weakness or lack of confidence.
• Examples: Phrases like “I could be wrong, but…”, “This is only my opinion…”, or using too many vocal fillers (um, uh).
• Recommendation: Avoid powerless talk to maintain a strong leadership presence.

Empowerment

• Concept: Sharing or giving away power to followers.
• Benefits: Increased job satisfaction, better cooperation, personal investment, growth and learning opportunities, and prevention of power abuses.
• Leadership Styles: Varies between authoritarian (less sharing) and democratic (more sharing) styles.

Action Items

• Task List: Work on assigned tasks regarding this chapter.
• Communication: Reach out via email for questions or issues regarding the material.

Conclusion

• Revisit key points to ensure clear understanding and application in real-world scenarios.
• Prepare examples and definitions for each type of power for exams or practical applications.