Legitimate power in leadership. Power in Leadership: 9 Types for Effective Leaders 2022-11-07

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Legitimate power is a type of power that is derived from the formal position or rank held by an individual within an organization. It is the authority that is granted to an individual based on their position within the organization and is often referred to as positional power. This type of power is typically associated with leaders who hold a formal leadership role, such as a manager or supervisor.

Legitimate power is an important aspect of leadership because it allows leaders to make decisions and take actions that are necessary for the organization to achieve its goals. For example, a manager may use their legitimate power to assign tasks to employees, set deadlines, or make changes to policies and procedures. This type of power is also often used to motivate and influence the behavior of others, as employees may be more likely to comply with the requests or orders of a leader who holds legitimate power.

One of the key benefits of legitimate power is that it is often supported by the organizational structure and is therefore seen as more legitimate and fair. This can help to maintain order and stability within the organization, as employees are more likely to follow the rules and procedures that are put in place by those who hold legitimate power.

However, it is important for leaders who hold legitimate power to use it responsibly and ethically. If a leader abuses their power or uses it in a way that is not in the best interests of the organization or its employees, they may lose the respect and trust of those they lead. This can lead to a lack of commitment and engagement from employees, which can ultimately undermine the effectiveness of the leader and the organization.

In conclusion, legitimate power is an important aspect of leadership that allows leaders to make decisions and take actions that are necessary for the organization to achieve its goals. It is important for leaders to use this power responsibly and ethically in order to maintain the respect and trust of those they lead and to ensure the success of the organization.

Legitimate Power In Leadership

legitimate power in leadership

This act prevents leaders from losing legitimacy. What is legitimate power in simple words? The leader can create a sense of obligation in the followers to do what he or she wants. However, the legitimate power concept allows a person to exercise more power than his position permits Phatak. The disadvantage of legitimate power is that the power alone does not guarantee loyalty or respect. This means that they must be using their power to help improve the lives of the people, not just for their own benefit. When used effectively, it can help to build trust and rapport with others. This type of power is often used in military organizations, where the leader is given orders and the followers obey without questioning.

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Legitimate Power in Leadership

legitimate power in leadership

It is worth noting that leaders are given powers depending on their capabilities. Can you act in response to the wrongdoing in a manner that sends a message to the wrongdoer and others in proximity as well that wrongdoing will not be tolerated? For that reason, a manager who empowers employees becomes more of a colleague than a boss Fuqua, Payne and Cangemi. Charismatic power is exercised when people obey someone because of his personal attributes. Power derived from expertise or knowledge is another type of legitimate power. A leader may also be legitimized by force. There are many different types of legitimate authorities, and they can be found in both the public and private sectors. One of the most important determinants of the legitimacy of power is its source.

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Power in Leadership: 9 Types for Effective Leaders

legitimate power in leadership

In addition, they are also able to bargain effectively for their fulfillment. Clear hierarchy in positions of authority: This makes you see where the center of control lies and make decisions that not only benefit the organization but also the Ability to influence and impact others: A leader who shows a high level of responsibility and integrity can wield influence that impacts and earns the trust and voluntary cooperation of team members. Political scientists and philosophers have long wrestled with this question, and there is no easy answer. There are a variety of different types of power, but what are some examples of legitimate power? Read also Child Custody Legal Guardianship Forms Pdf The third way to use legitimate power is to create a sense of obligation in the followers to do what the leader wants. Knowing someone that will take the time to introduce and advocate for you can open a whole new world of possibilities—much the same in an organizational setting. Understanding the behaviors within an organization, therefore, helps a leader develop competencies that help him predict how subordinates are likely to conduct themselves Ashraf.

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Leadership power, legitimate, coercive power, reward power

legitimate power in leadership

Subordinates naturally comply with such influence without being coerced to do so. In some cases, leaders with connection power may use their influence to coerce or pressure others into doing things they may not want to do. Regardless of where in a company an individual finds themselves, cultivating power and building on strengths often results in professional advancement. Connection power Leaders have connection power when their alliance with influential people is admired and desired by others. CEOs acquire power legitimately. Legitimate power is the power that is conferred by a legal authority.

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What Is Expert Power? Types & Importance in Leadership

legitimate power in leadership

Additionally, organizational behaviour studies the characteristics of an organization. Parents also have the right to punish their children when they disobey, which is another example of legitimate power. Those already in leadership positions might climb the executive ladder even higher. Why are Types of Power Important? While information power is not the only type of power that leaders can possess, it is a valuable tool that can help leaders to achieve their goals. Although legitimate power is a very effective tool, it can also be dangerous if used inappropriately. It is important for legitimate leaders to deter these behaviors because they might influence the direction an organization takes.

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What is Legitimate Power?

legitimate power in leadership

This means that the people who are being controlled by the government or other authority figure have willingly given their consent, either through elections or some other form of representation. To exercise power in a legitimate way can best be done through leading by example — through modeled behavior to employees. Leaders with Referent power are often seen as thought leaders in their field. Proper communication is also important to make the relationship work and achieve work goals faster. This practice is based on the principle that positive reinforcement can often foster a healthy work environment and excitement in the team.

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The Concept of Legitimate Power in Leadership Explained With Examples

legitimate power in leadership

Other Types of Power There are other types of power that leaders should use to complement their positions in an organization - some perceived to be positive and others negative, but nonetheless, they are found in all levels of leadership and management. The second way to use legitimate power is to use persuasive arguments to get the followers to agree with what the leader wants. Nonetheless, in some cases, non managerial employees may exercise some legitimate power Hellriegel and Slocum 23. First and foremost, power allows a leader to get things done. Expert Power Expert power involves years of training and experience to be built up by a person before they can be considered an expert to the degree that it affords them this leadership power.

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What is the Power of Leadership? 9 Types of Power in Leadership

legitimate power in leadership

Additionally, a leader is free to exercise less power than what is bestowed on him Phatak. This act is referred to as succession planning or legitimating a leader Ashraf. Legitimate power in leadership is the ability of a leader to influence others through their position within the organization. It occurs when a leader has strong interpersonal skills, so others follow them because they find the leader inspiring. A passionate leader can make things happen, whereas a leader without power is simply a figurehead. Similarly, a lawyer has power in the legal field because they have knowledge of the law. Power is not synonymous with Many leaders have power because of their position in the workplace.

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Legitimate Power

legitimate power in leadership

For example, if a government or other authority figure abuses their power or mistreats the people they are supposed to be serving, their power is likely to be seen as illegitimate. Leaders who inspire the workforce also usually have more loyal staff than those who intimidate. Leaders with charismatic power are often seen as being motivating and exciting. Expert Power Finally, we come to expert power. Charismatic power Charisma is the nature of attractiveness or charm that compels others to follow someone. While a team member may not have the authority of a manager, colleagues follow those with leadership power because of their respect for them.


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