Which power used in this situation, when the manager gives incentive to one employee for extra effort on a new project?

Appeared in: RRB Nsg. Superintendent-20 July 2019 (Shift-3rd)

Explanation

The scenario describes a manager giving an 'incentive' to an employee for 'extra effort'.
This action directly aligns with the definition of Reward Power, which is the ability to influence others by providing desirable rewards (e.g., bonuses, praise, promotions) in exchange for compliance or achieving goals.
The incentive serves as a positive reinforcement to motivate the employee, which is the core mechanism of reward power.

Option B: Expert power is based on specialized knowledge or skills. The manager is not using their expertise to influence the employee, but rather a tangible incentive.
Option C: Legitimate power stems from the manager's formal position or title. While the manager has this power, the specific act of giving an incentive is an exercise of reward power, not just relying on their title to command action.
Option D: Coercive power is the opposite of reward power; it involves using threats or punishment to influence behavior. The manager is offering a positive incentive, not a negative consequence.

Visual 1: Diagram: An infographic illustrating the five bases of power (Reward, Coercive, Legitimate, Expert, Referent) with simple icons and one-sentence definitions for each.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Types of Power in Management as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
For nurse leaders (e.g., charge nurses, unit managers), understanding different types of power is crucial for effective team management and motivation.
Relying solely on legitimate or coercive power can lead to a negative work environment and staff burnout. A balance, incorporating reward, expert, and referent power, fosters a more positive, productive, and collaborative atmosphere.
What if the manager did not offer an incentive but instead inspired the employee to work harder because the employee admires and respects the manager? In that case, the manager would be using Referent Power.

How to Approach the Question

First, analyze the scenario presented in the question stem. Identify the key action: 'manager gives incentive'.
Next, understand the core question: 'Which power used in this situation?'.
Review the definitions of the power types listed in the options: Reward, Expert, Legitimate, and Coercive.
Match the key action ('giving an incentive') to the most appropriate definition. An incentive is a form of reward.
Therefore, the power being used is Reward Power. Eliminate the other options by confirming they do not fit the scenario.

Concept Tested & Keywords

QoDw2bGdxMjTz0MHo8z9PB

Practise the full RRB Nsg. Superintendent-20 July 2019 (Shift-3rd)

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.