While studying for my PMP certification I came across an interesting subject of politics, power and how to get things done. I believe we have all come across it, regardless of industry and role. I was intrigued by the different categories of power. What type of powers are you surrounded by?
Positional power – Result of the position of the manager. This is also known as formal authoritative and legitimate power.
Informational power – Control of data gathering and distribution of information. Would typically keep information to keep power.
Referent power – respected or admired because of past experiences. The team or stakeholders have worked with the manager before. (could also be that a person in power has given a certain direction).
Situational power – Because of certain situations in the organization, such as a change in leadership or change in the project team.
Personal or charismatic power – Warm personality that others like. Has a friendly demeanour.
Reward power– Can reward the project, so the project team acts accordingly.
Ingratiating power – Gains favor through flattery. Temporary power as this falseness wears down.
Pressure based power – Can restrict choices to get the team to perform and do the work. (if you can do this then you can take the weekend off).
Guilt-based power – can make the team and stakeholders feel guilty in order to gain compliance. (I let you take last Friday off, guilt trip)
Persuasive power – Persuade people toward a specific outcome or decision (sales pitch)
Avoiding power – Refuses to act, get involved, or make decisions. (avoid and someone will figure it out)
