Leadership and Management: The Bases of Power

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It is important as part of learning about leadership and management to identify bases of power that is used by others in a workplace setting. There are six bases of power (Patronis Jones, 2007).  At some point in time you will see all six of these bases.  If you are ever placed in a postion of power, it is important to remember them so that the one you choose is best for that situation and position,

 One of the most strongest power to have is known as Expert Power.  This power base is the most positive and nonaggressive way to have power because it is genuine and you have worked hard to get it.  This power indicates that you are seen as the best on the area yo comu work on.

The second most important power if it is not abused, is Reward Power.  This base is often used as manipulation, so if this power is used, be fair.  Usually this power is when one is in charge of schedules and raises.

The third power is Legitimate Power.  This bas is abour the power that is given to the individual in order to do the job, such as a DON.  It is based on knowledge, hard work and ability and it comes with a title given from the administrative department.

Coercion Power  is considered a unhealthy power base in that the person who uses this base does not have the leadership serkills necessary for the job.  The main focus of this base is to hurt and punish others.  The person also does not have the clinical skills needed as well to do the job at hand.

Informational Power is a genuine source of power in which the individual does not gossip bur rather gives accurate information that empowers everyone.  Typically it is nurse managers that have this power because of their knowledge base.

Last, the power base that is a caring power is known as Reverent Power.  This base utilizes the skill of networking to  get to know people and are willing to assist them.  This power is a power that is kind and caring about others feelings, thoughts and ideas.

These bases of power defines the types of power that exist among us today.  It is up to each one of us as to which power to use.  Power can have very dramatic effects on people, whether it is used one on one or whether it is used in a group.    Over all, power commensurate with knowledge and expertise is needed to enable nurses to provide competent, humanistic, and affordable care to individualts and improve nursing, healthcare and health policy (Patronis Jones, 2007).

                                                                             Reference

Patronis Jones, R. A. (2007). Nursing leadership and management: Theories, processes and practice. Philadelphia, PA: F. A. Davis.