What defines legitimate power?

• A. Power based on knowledge, skills, or experience.
• B. Power based on respect, admiration, or personal connection.
• C. Power based on the belief that someone has the right to make demands (perception-based).
• D. Gaining compliance through punishment or threats.

Answer: (C)

Legitimate power comes from holding an official position within an organization and having that role recognized as giving you the right to make demands and expect compliance. It relies on a shared belief among others that the authority attached to the role is rightful and legitimate, so people respond to the command because they accept the authority of the position itself. This is different from power that comes from what you know (expert power), from who you are or your status (referent power), or from the ability to punish or threaten (coercive power). For someone like a supervisor or manager, subordinates comply because the role carries formal authority that others perceive as legitimate.