Which term describes the power associated with the individual rather than the individual's position?

Which term describes the power associated with the individual rather than the individual's position?

• A. Position power
• B. Organizational culture
• C. Personal influence
• D. Organizational structure

Answer: (C)

Power tied to the individual rather than the formal position is personal influence. This type of power comes from who you are—your credibility, expertise, relationships, and interpersonal skills—so you can persuade and motivate others even without a higher title. It differs from position power, which rests on your official role and authority to sanction, reward, or enforce. Organizational culture describes shared norms and values, while organizational structure concerns how tasks and roles are arranged. Personal influence matters because it can drive cooperation and commitment across different roles and hierarchies, not just because of a formal title.

Power tied to the individual rather than the formal position is personal influence. This type of power comes from who you are—your credibility, expertise, relationships, and interpersonal skills—so you can persuade and motivate others even without a higher title. It differs from position power, which rests on your official role and authority to sanction, reward, or enforce. Organizational culture describes shared norms and values, while organizational structure concerns how tasks and roles are arranged. Personal influence matters because it can drive cooperation and commitment across different roles and hierarchies, not just because of a formal title.