Coercive Power

Coercive power is the opposite of reward power. It is the ability of the power holder to remove
something from a person or to punish them for not conforming with a request.

For example:

Coercive power could take the form of a threatened strike action by a labour union; the threat of
preventing promotion or transfer of a subordinate for poor performance; it could be a threat of
litigation; it could be at threat of non-payment; it could be the threat to go public; and it could even
be a threat of physical injury.

Expert Power: When a leader has significant domain knowledge/skills. E.g. an expert
accountant influences how junior accountants go about their tasks

Reward Power: Is evident when a leader can give, or take away, a reward. E.g. a leader can
influence a follower’s behavior by awarding a bonus, or taking away perks

Coercive Power: This is felt when a leader creates the perception of a threat. E.g. a leader has
coercive power if her followers believe that she will initiate disciplinary action

Referent power is individual power based on a high level of identification with, admiration of,
or respect for the powerholder.

Nationalism, patriotism, celebrities and well-respected people are examples of referent power in
effect.