Which application of leadership is the legitimate power of a leader to direct subordinates to take action within the scope of the leader's position?

• A. Influence
• B. Control
• C. Direction
• D. Authority

Answer: (D)

Authority is the legitimate right granted by the organization for a leader to direct subordinates to act within the scope of their official role. This formal power comes from the leader’s position, job description, and the organizational structure, and it allows assigning tasks, making decisions, and requiring action within defined boundaries. Influence, by contrast, relies on personal traits or relationships and doesn’t automatically grant a mandate to compel behavior. Direction is about guiding actions, but without the formal legitimacy that comes with a position. Control involves oversight and enforcement, but it’s the formal, position-based authorization—authority—that best fits the description.