Which term describes the legitimate power to direct subordinates to take action within the scope of your position?

Which term describes the legitimate power to direct subordinates to take action within the scope of your position?

• A. Authority
• B. Influence
• C. Motivation
• D. Consent

Answer: (A)

Authority is the legitimate power granted by the organization through your position and formal responsibilities. This formal authority lets you issue orders, assign tasks, set deadlines, and enforce rules within the scope of your role, with subordinates expected to comply because the command comes from the organizational structure itself. This is what differentiates it from influence, which relies on personal charm or persuasion; motivation, which is about individuals’ internal drive; and consent, which is simply agreement to a request rather than a formal right to direct actions. A manager directing a team to complete a project by a specific date exemplifies authority in action—the power comes from the role, not just personal influence.