Power
Power in business leadership refers to the ability to influence others, shape decision-making, and direct outcomes within an organisation. Power dynamics influence behaviours, organisational culture, and strategic decisions, affecting everything from individual performance to broader organisational goals.
Technique Overview
Power Definition
Power is defined as "the capacity to control one’s own and others’ resources and outcomes" (Galinsky et al., 2007). It contrasts with dependence, as powerful individuals are less reliant on others for resources, allowing them to satisfy their needs and desires more easily (Galinsky et al., 2008). Pfeffer (2018) extends this view, arguing that power is relational and strategic, giving individuals the ability to influence decisions and behaviours within their social networks.
Power Description *
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Business Evidence
Strengths, weaknesses and examples of Power *
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Business Application
Implementation, success factors and measures of Power *
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Professional Tools
Power videos and downloads *
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Further Reading
Power web and print resources *
Power references (4 of up to 20) *
- Anderson, C., & Galinsky, A. D. (2006). Power, optimism, and risk-taking. European Journal of Social Psychology, 36(4), 370–377. Online: https://doi.org/10.1002/ejsp.324
- Arnold, J., Silvester, J., Patterson, F., & Robertson, I. (2005). Work Psychology: Understanding Human Behaviour in the Workplace. Pearson Education.
- Ernst, J., & Koll, H. (2024). Managerial pedagogy and organizational power dynamics in the context of neoliberal organizational transition. Scandinavian Journal of Management, 40(3), 101334. Online: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scaman.2024.101342
- Ford, R.C., Sturman, M.C. and Heaton, C.P. (2012) Managing Quality Service in Hospitality. Delmar (Cengage Learning), New York.
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