five points of power over another

A person has the potential for influencing five points of power over another (French & Raven, 1959):

Ø Coercive Power – Power that is based on fear. A person with coercive power can make things
difficult for people. These are the persons that you want to avoid getting angry. Employees
working under coercive managers are unlikely to be committed, and more likely to resist the manager.

Ø Reward Power – Compliance achieved based on the ability to distribute rewards that others view as valuable. Able to give special benefits or rewards to people. You might find it advantageous to trade favors with him or her.

Ø Legitimate Power- The power a person receives as a result of his or her position in the formal hierarchy of an organization. The person has the right, considering his or her position and your job responsibilities, to expect you to comply with legimate requests.

Ø Expert Power – Influence based on special skills or knowledge. This person earns respect by experience and knowledge. Expert power is the most strongly and consistenly related to effective employee performance.

Ø Referent Power- influence based on possession by an individual or desirable resources or personal traits. You like the person and enjoy doing things for him or her