Which statement is an example of expert power?

Which statement is an example of expert power?

• A. An employee ignores a manager because they don't believe the manager has real authority.
• B. A veteran detective influences decisions due to years of experience.
• C. A correctional officer threatens disciplinary action if inmates don't follow rules.
• D. Officers follow a leader because they respect and admire them.

Answer: (B)

Expert power is influence that comes from knowledge, skill, and proven competence. A veteran detective influences decisions because of years of experience, which gives others reason to trust their judgment and rely on their expertise. This kind of authority rests on the credibility built through demonstrated mastery, not just a title, threats, or personal likability. The other scenarios reflect different bases of power: following a leader due to respect or admiration points to referent (personal charisma), threats or disciplinary action illustrate coercive power, and ignoring authority because the manager’s authority isn’t believed touches on legitimacy issues rather than expertise.

Expert power is influence that comes from knowledge, skill, and proven competence. A veteran detective influences decisions because of years of experience, which gives others reason to trust their judgment and rely on their expertise. This kind of authority rests on the credibility built through demonstrated mastery, not just a title, threats, or personal likability.

The other scenarios reflect different bases of power: following a leader due to respect or admiration points to referent (personal charisma), threats or disciplinary action illustrate coercive power, and ignoring authority because the manager’s authority isn’t believed touches on legitimacy issues rather than expertise.