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The Use of Power

Some individuals can have at different times or even simultaneously

combinations of these different types of power. Regardless of the type of
power, the amount of power or influence a leader has is related to a
number of factors, including:
 Personal qualities (appearance, age, family background, reputation,
special skills, and communication abilities).
 Control of or access to such resources as jobs, wealth, property,

services, businesses, and prestige.
 Their reputation in their field and their technical expertise.
 Their ability to get things done.
 The cumulative influence growing out of all the positions or offices
held.

 Their optimistic and positive nature (a positive self-image).

If a leader acknowledges and understands the power that he or she
possesses, the result is a greater sense of control over one’s job, one’s tasks,
and one’s choices. Henry Miller once said that the only way in which anyone
can lead you is to restore to you the belief in your own guidance. Once people
learn what their points of power are, it is possible to expand them. They

are not stuck with the power they have; they have the capacity to learn new
bases of power.

A leader must use power wisely and justly, or it can become a liability
rather than an asset. It only takes one incompetent act to result in an

immediate loss of power. Good leaders work to build their sources of
power and use their powers to influence others in the organization so that
goals can be met and visions achieved.

David Kolzow 39