When Is Legitimate Power Used?

Legitimate Power is a formal type of power derived from the position you hold in an organization. Subordinates comply because they believe in the legitimacy of your position. With Legitimate Power it is your position that gives you your power. The higher up the organizational hierarchy you go the more power you hold.

What is an example of legitimate power?

Legitimate power is power that comes from one's organizational role or position. For example, a boss can assign projects, a policeman can arrest a citizen, and a teacher assigns grades.

What does it mean to legitimate your power?

Legitimate power - The authority granted to someone stemming from a position in a group or organization. Legitimate power stems from an authority's legitimate right to require and demand compliance. Legitimate power stems from a leader's formal authority over activities.