Power is a spectrum

Last week, I talked about the importance of likability in upward mobility. This week, I will argue that likability leads to power. The best leaders understand the different types of power and how to use them. They know how to impose their will on others through influence. All power is not created equal, and different types of power have different lifespans.

An influential study in 1959 identified five types of social power:

Highly effective power

1. Legitimate power is formal power that you receive when you occupy a certain position. It lasts as long as you maintain the role, is recognized by subordinates, and works in hierarchical organizations. CEOs, prime ministers, and fire chiefs fall into this category. This type of power is generally limited in its scope of influence.
2. Expert power comes from deep technical knowledge and extensive expertise in your field of experience. People come to you to benefit from your knowledge and respect your opinions.
3. Referent power is achieved through qualities that inspire trust and respect, like honesty and integrity. People with referent power come off as natural leaders; they have interpersonal skills, exude confidence, and offer support. It is a personal power that cannot be given by others. Celebrities and influencers have referent power, which is why politicians seek celebrity endorsements. A business leader with referent power makes people feel good but needs expert power for long-term career success.

Moderately effective power

1. Reward power comes through raises, benefits, promotions, or public praise. It helps achieve results but does not ensure commitment.

Ineffective power

1. Coercive power is the least effective yet very commonly used. "Perform, or else." It creates unhappy and disengaged employees. Threats and punishments fall into this category.

Six years later, the researchers added an extra power base:

Informational power is power through the ability to control the information that others need to accomplish something. Access to financial reports, information on layoff plans, or where the annual retreat will be held are all examples of informational power.

Not all types of power are equally effective. Some work for short-term solutions (like employee discipline), while other types of power will help you gain support and commitment to influence outcomes. Sometimes, different types of power must be combined for optimal results. As you reflect on your work style, your relationship style, your parenting style — what kind of power do you rely on? What do you aspire to have? Where are the gaps?

Side note: I can’t help but point out how much parenting and business theory overlap — all the lessons in being likable and in obtaining the right kind of power apply in parenting as well, AFAIC.

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