Power refers to an individual’s ability to get things done. Power within an organization is normally categorized as power or informal power. Formal power comes from the formal position one holds within an organization. The authority and powers associated with the formal position are outlined in the job contract and are known to almost everyone in the company. Formal power changes with one’s formal designation over the course of his/her career. Workers in all organizations are expected to respect formal authority or powers as part of their job. In contrast, informal powers are not officially sanctioned but instead arise due to the factors that are unique to an individual. An individual may have skills that give him credibility and thus, an informal power over others with lesser skills. A person may be good at people skills which makes him likable. Someone may have the ability to inspire and motivate others by making them feel important. A person may have a history of accomplishments and good calls which will make others trust his/her judgment. Similarly, someone with more experience may also be able to exercise informal power over others with little or no experience. Thus, whether someone has formal powers or informal powers or both, in all cases he/she will use that power to make things happen through others.

A nurse leader has both formal and informal powers. He/she has formal powers due to his designation. This results in more efficient provision of services because instead of letting everyone follow their own judgment, a nurse leader is able to set uniform standards and policies and minimize confusion. A nurse leader may also have an informal power due to his experience and skills that were the reasons he/she became a nurse leader in the first place. Moreover, his subordinates may see that he/she is passionate about his work, takes good care of his subordinates as well as look after their needs, and has successfully dealt with crisis situations.

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