COMMERCE 3S03 Chapter : 3S03-CH6.docx

• School: McMaster University
• Department: Commerce
• Course: COMMERCE 3S03
• Professor: Vera Dodds

Document Summary

For managerial purposes, power can be defined as the ability to exert influence to control others or events, and the capacity to defend against the influence of others. Authority is the type of power of person possesses due to his position. Influence is power in action, and influence tactics serve as the means by which manager"s gain and exercise power. Understanding what power is, where it comes from, and the most effective tactics to get beyond authority to influence others is a key to great management. Power only exists where there are at least 2 people, and is a property of the relationship between people. A useful and popular way to think of power is that it is based on dependence. Dependence leads people to do things they may otherwise do. Understanding relational dependencies is key t understanding your own power and the power of others.