Western Governors University (WGU) C464 Introduction to Communication Practice Exam

Legitimate power is rooted in an individual's formal position or rank within an organization’s hierarchy. This power comes from the authority that an individual possesses due to their role, which grants them the right to make decisions, issue commands, and enforce rules within the organization. It is acknowledged and accepted by others, as it is tied to a recognized structure where certain roles have established rights and responsibilities.

In contrast, expert power arises from an individual's specific skills or expertise that are valued by the organization. Referent power is based on a person's likability and the degree to which others want to identify with or be associated with them. Informational power depends on a person's access to important data or knowledge that others need. However, none of these types of power are directly linked to one's formal position in the hierarchy, highlighting why legitimate power is the most accurate choice in this context.