Power, authority, and influence in the workplace Essay

Power, authority, and influence in the workplace - Essay Example Power and influence theories are linked with how individuals use power and influence to manipulate others and consequently achieve organizational objectives in the workplace. In reference to French and Raven's theory of power, I take advantage of my personal power and strive on advancing my professional skills and knowledge as this is considered the most reasonable basis or foundation of power and influence. According to Lunenburg, power and influence theories also focus on transactional form of leadership. According to this form of leadership, individuals or workers strive to achieve their goals in the hope of getting a reward. Therefore, I use rewards to inspire and encourage workers and hence ensure that duties or tasks are completed in a timely manner.   Lunenburg additionally states that contingency theories focus on different leadership styles according to existing situations. Organizations are faced by numerous challenges that require effective decisions to be made. Therefor e, I employ different leadership styles depending on existing organizational problems. This is important as it ensures employees are supported at all times. An effective leadership style ensures the creation of effective relationships among workers and also between workers and the management. This type of leadership theory is referred to as path-goal leadership theory. In other words, the path-goal theory states that employees enjoying a good relationship with their leaders are pleased by their accommodating nature.