What are some recent contextual challenges in leadership?
Changing workforce expectations across Generations X, Y, Z (balance, flexibility, stability).
Shift to digital and remote work.
Rise of ethical scandals and demand for authentic leadership.
Globalization and multicultural teams.
How is power defined in organizations?
Power is A’s capacity to influence B’s behavior so that B acts in accordance with A’s wishes.
What defines authentic leadership?
A leadership style where the leader is:
Self-aware (knows strengths, weaknesses, values)
Anchored by principles and mission
Considers others’ opinions before acting
Displays their true self in interactions
➡ Leads to higher group performance, trust, and positive relationships.
Where does power come from?
Power comes from dependence — A has something B needs.
Dependence is higher when the resource is important, scarce, and nonsubstitutable.
What is formal power
Coercive power: based on the ability to punish or create fear of negative consequences.
Reward power: based on the ability to distribute rewards that others value.
Legitimate power: based on recognized authority from one’s official position or hierarchy.
In short: Formal power = power that comes from your job title or position, not your personality.
What is personal power
Personal power comes from a person’s individual qualities, not their position. It includes:
Expert power: based on possessing valuable knowledge, skills, or expertise.
Referent power: based on personal traits (like charisma, integrity, or likability) that inspire admiration and respect from others.
What are the three possible reactions to influence?
Acceptance → enthusiastic commitment, behavior and attitude change
Compliance → reluctant agreement, only behavior changes
Resistance → rejection, no change in behavior or attitude
What determines the effectiveness of influence tactics?
Direction of influence:
Rational persuasion → effective in all directions
Inspirational appeals → work best downward
Personal appeals/coalitions → work best sideways
Sequencing: Start with soft tactics (personal power)
Target type:
Intrinsically motivated → respond to soft tactics
Extrinsically motivated → respond to hard tactics
Culture: Organizational and national culture moderate effects
According to your final slide, what makes for good leadership?
Instilling a vision
Structuring tasks
Attending to people and relationships
Acting from core values and principles
