A manager's legitimate power over subordinates exists when:
A) The organisation grants formal authority over the employees
B) The manager is able to reward or punish the employees
C) Employees agree to let the manager have power over them
D) The organisation grants formal authority AND employees agree to let the manager use this authority

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Legitimate power is granted by the organization as formal authority, but it can only be effective when the employees acknowledge and accept the manager's right to use this power, which is why option D is the correct choice. Option A only refers to formal authority, which is necessary, but not sufficient for legitimate power. Option B refers to reward and punishment power, which is a type of coercive power, but not legitimate power. Option C refers to referent power, where employees voluntarily accept a manager's influence because they respect or admire them.

A Manager's Legitimate Power Over Subordinates Exists When