Which type of power is based on position or title?

Position power is derived from an individual's formal authority within an organization. It is linked to the specific role or title a person holds, granting them the ability to influence others and make decisions that can affect the organization or its members. This type of power often includes the ability to provide rewards, enforce compliance, or impose sanctions based on the position one occupies.

In the context of organizational behavior, those who possess position power typically have control over resources, decision-making processes, and the ability to manage subordinates. Examples include managers, executives, and team leaders who can lead teams or departments based solely on their appointed titles rather than their personal skills or relationships.

In contrast, task power would relate more to the specific capabilities associated with completing tasks or projects, while knowledge power focuses on the expertise or knowledge an individual possesses. Relationship power pertains to the influence one has based on their network and interpersonal connections. Each of these forms of power is valuable, but position power specifically revolves around the authority that accompanies a formal title within an organizational hierarchy.