Explain the three main types of positional or organizational power

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Reward power. Reward power refers to the ability to control valued resources within the organization. An individual who has the capacity to provide others with something of value—a salary increase, a better assignment, access to new equipment, and so on—has reward power.

Coercion power. Coercion power is the opposite of reward power. Coercion power is embodied in one's ability to punish others. Coercion or punishment is usually associated with an organization's disciplinary procedures. However, it also includes the ability to withhold rewards—not allow subordinates to have merit raises, be assigned a new patrol vehicle, or given a choice assignment. Coercive power, like reward power, should not be used frivolously. Its use has long-lasting effects on the individual and possibly the organization.

Legitimate power. Legitimate power refers to the power people receive as a result of their position within the organization. Legitimate power is vested with one's authority. This power is hierarchical. Persons of higher rank have greater or more legitimate power than those below them. Legitimate power is not unrestricted; it is restricted to those matters that pertain to the position within the organization—people holding rank are given specific responsibilities.