Which type of power relies on a follower's belief in a leader's ability to influence outcomes?

Referent power is grounded in the personal qualities and relationships a leader cultivates with their followers. This type of power emerges from the admiration and respect that subordinates have for their leader, leading them to believe in the leader's ability to influence outcomes positively. When followers see a leader as someone they can relate to, or who embodies certain admirable traits, they are more likely to be motivated by that leader’s vision and guidance. This emotional connection and identification with the leader enhance the leader’s ability to affect change and drive organizational goals.

In contrast, coercive power relates to the use of fear or punishment to influence behavior, while legitimate power is derived from the position or title a leader holds, which confers authority. Expert power comes from a leader’s specialized knowledge or skills, persuading followers through competence rather than personal rapport. Each of these types lacks the intrinsic connection and trust that characterize referent power, which fundamentally relies on followers’ belief in and emotional attachment to their leader.