What type of power stems from one's formal position?

• A. Legitimate power
• B. Expert power
• C. Coercive power
• D. Referent power

Answer: (A)

Power that comes from one's formal position is legitimate power. It arises from the official authority granted by the organizational role and the rules that define what you can command, decide, or sanction. People comply because the role itself is authorized to enforce rules and make decisions within a defined scope. This differs from other forms of power: expert power comes from knowledge and skill, coercive power from the ability to punish, and referent power from personal charisma and admiration. Legitimate power is exercised through the authority of the position and is tied to the duties and responsibilities of that role.