French and Raven's Five Forms of Power
Understanding Power

Have you ever felt manipulated or coerced into doing something you didn't want to do?

If so, you many have experienced a negative use of power. Learn how to use power positively in this infographic.

Forms of Power:
Legitimate.
Comes from a belief that a person has the formal right to make demands and expect complete compliance from others.

Reward
Results from one person's ability to compensate another for compliance.

Expert
Based on a person's high levels of skill and knowledge.

Referent
Result of a person's perceived attractiveness, worthiness, and right to respect from others.

Coercive
Comes from the belief that a person can punish others for non-compliance.

The powers that the best leaders use are mainly expert and referent. If you improve your skills in these areas, you can have a positive influence upon your organization as a whole.

When you're aware of these sources of power, you can...
Better understand why you're influenced and whether you want to accept the base of power.
Recognize your own sources of power.
Build your leadership skills by developing your own, positive sources of power.


© 2022 Mind Tools by Emerald Works Ltd.