What exemplifies legitimate power in a supervisory context?

• A. Strict discipline
• B. Written directives outlining responsibilities
• C. Personal popularity among subordinates
• D. Ability to change policy at will

Answer: (B)

In a supervisory context, legitimate power is derived from the formal position that an individual holds within an organization and is often characterized by the authority to direct and manage tasks and responsibilities. Written directives outlining responsibilities directly exemplify this type of power because they serve as official documentation that defines the roles and expectations of subordinates. This clarity reinforces the supervisor’s authority and responsibility to assign tasks, ensuring that subordinates recognize and respect the structure of command.

Unlike strict discipline, which may reflect power exercised through coercion or control rather than authority, or personal popularity, which is based on interpersonal relationships rather than formal authority, written directives provide a clear framework of expectations. Moreover, the ability to change policy at will suggests a level of power that may not necessarily be legitimate, as it could undermine the established rules and procedures that govern an organization's operations. Thus, written directives embody the essence of legitimate power by illustrating the formal and recognized authority of the supervisor within the organization.