Which power is based on individual expertise and skills?

The correct answer is grounded in the concept of expertise and specialized skills. Expert power is derived from an individual's knowledge, skills, or experience that makes others rely on them for guidance and insights. This form of power is highly valued, especially in organizational settings, as it builds trust and admiration among peers and subordinates who recognize the individual's abilities.

When a person has a deep understanding of a particular area or a unique skill set, they can influence decisions, guide teams, and provide solutions more effectively than those without such expertise. This form of power tends to foster collaborative environments where others seek the expert's input and follow their lead, thereby enhancing the overall functioning of the team or organization.

In contrast, other forms of power—such as referent power, which comes from personal attributes and relationships; legitimate power, which is based on a person's position in the organizational hierarchy; and coercive power, which relies on fear or punishment—do not specifically stem from individual expertise or skills. This distinction highlights why expert power is uniquely associated with the influence gained through knowledge and competence.