Which power type is based on a person's expertise?

Expert power is derived from an individual's specific skills or knowledge in a particular area. When someone is recognized as an expert, others are more likely to seek their advice or guidance, relying on their expertise to inform decisions or solve problems. This type of power relies not on formal authority or coercion, but on the respect and trust others have in the expert's abilities.

In organizations, expert power can be crucial for conveying influence, especially when making decisions that require specialized knowledge. For instance, a medical professional in a hospital context possesses expert power due to their medical knowledge, which can sway the opinions and actions of others in the organization.

The other power types, while significant, do not emphasize knowledge or expertise as the foundation of influence. Reward power relies on the ability to provide positive incentives; legitimate power is based on a formal position or authority; and coercive power is rooted in the ability to impose penalties or sanctions. These types do not reflect the respect given to someone based on their expertise alone.