Ob Exam Study Guide

Chapter 13 Power and Influence

Opening case on nepotism

How can you identify the sources of power in your organization

What are the sources of power in organizations and what are some examples of how different groups/individuals use them? (everything is in Table 13.2)

Key terms

Power sources are the entire repertoire of behaviors that an individual could potentially call upon to influence others, whereas power tactics are the behaviors actually used in a particular situation

Formal power originates in the principle of hierarchy—the belief that power should be held disproportionately, with those higher in the organization having more and those lower having less. In contrast, informal power is reciprocal—individuals help each other out because of anticipated mutual gain, and conflict is minimal

Personal(soft) sources of power

Referent power: identifies with, likes, and admires person A

Example: a subordinate sees the boss as a role model

Expert power: believes person A has relavant experience and knowledge

Example: An employee agrees to implement a policy created by the company’s leagal advisors

Information power: Is convinced by Person A’s clear logic, argument, or information

Example: A work team is sold on a company redesign because of the way boss presents it to them

Formal (harsh) sources of power

Coercive power: fears being punished if he doesn’t comply with person A’s wishes

Example: employees receive tangible punishments such as pay cut, or intangible punishments such as personal disapproval

Reward power: anticipated being rewarded if he complies with person a’s wishes

Example: Employees receive awards such as money or personal approval

Legitimate power: Accepts that person A’s formal position in the organization gives him the right to make certain decisions

Example: a boss tells a subordinate how to do his job

How can you acquire power in your organization?

Engage in political behavior

What is political behavior, and is it a good...