Analyzing Managerial Power

Completing this handout will help you become more familiar with the various forms of

managerial power sources, power tactics, and communication styles. As you complete the

handout, think of the type of manager you would like to be someday.

1. List the name of a manager with a memorable communication style whom you work for now

or have worked for in the past: ______________________________.

2. What kinds of organizational power did he or she use (check all that apply)?

____ Position ____ Reward ____ Coercive

____ Expert ____ Referent

3. What kinds of power tactics did he or she use (check all that apply)?

____ Consultation ____ Reasoning ____ Inspirational appeal

____ Ingratiating appeal ____ Peer pressure ____ Bargaining

____ Pulling rank ____ Upward appeal

4. What kind of communication style did he or she use (check all that apply)?

____ Emotive ____ Directive ____ Reflective ____ Supportive

5. How did you react to the various power tactics and communication styles that the manager

used when communicating with you?

6. Was this manager an effective communicator? Why or why not?

7. How could this manager improve his or her communication style?