AUTHORITY vs POWER
Power is the possession of Authority.
It is a matter of controlling and manipulating people to achieve the desired goals.
Power and authority are two ways, which are commonly used to influence others. It is the ability of a person to influence the beliefs and actions of other people. It is used to control actions or events.
Authority is the right given to a person or a post to achieve particular objectives. It is the right to get things done by others. It comes from the duties and responsibilities awarded to a position holder generally in any official structure.
Although the Power and Authority originate from same concept of influencing others, however they have different true meaning and application.
The main difference the degree of control and the way the control is exercised over the other person.
While authority is a bestowed right given to a person to get the things done, power is the ownership of the authority and control over others.
In both the cases the end result is same i.e. control to influence the opinions, movements and behaviors of others.
Power is wider concept.
Power is strictly speaking self-acquired.
Authority is given, sanctioned to a person. It is generally for a specified time.
Power comes to people who are experts in their field. For Power you do not dependent on others.
Thus, while a person will get authority only with some kind of position, either official or otherwise; Power comes with personality, charisma or personal attributes.
Policeman has authority.
Spiritual Guru, teacher, motivational speaker can exert his power of knowledge to influence the thoughts and beliefs of others. They have power.
Power is a much larger concept than authority. With ‘Power’ you can have much more influence, control and dominance over others.
Managers have authority.
Leaders have Power.
Be a leader not manager.
Best is as manager you have authority but also have power to influence others.
Authority brings coerciveness; Power brings harmony, while achieving the same goals.
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