Connecting Power Types and Leadership Approaches in Academia Can Enhance Our Influence and Maximize Impact

Abstract

Power types are systems of influence that leaders can use when faced with an opportunity or challenge; thus, power types can be viewed as tools in a leader’s toolbox. Each tool has a unique purpose and can be used depending on the situation at hand. Just as individual strengths, leadership styles, and preferences among leaders, no one power type is better or worse than another. Although there is substantial discussion about leadership styles and personality preferences in the academic pharmacy literature, little is said about the use of power types in higher education administration, and even less in health professions education administration. Leaders across the Academy can benefit from understanding how to exert influence using various power-type approaches, whether they hold formal administrative positions or lead and influence without formal leadership titles. This commentary focuses on identifying approaches to power, distinct from leadership styles, and calls on both individual leaders and the Academy to integrate power types and power dynamics more coherently into conversations about leadership and leadership approaches. Like leadership styles and strengths, power types can be helpful when leaders are at their best and can work against them in times of stress. Understanding power types, along with their benefits and drawbacks, can help leaders at all levels better use their power, express their voice, and influence their locus of control.