In proposing a new course of action, upper management remarks to you, "That's the way Jane, our founder, would have done it!" After that statement, the decision is made to accept and implement your idea. Which power source did you use?

A) Experience
B) Desirable characteristics
C) Higher than expected commitment of time
D) Behavior consistent with the values of the organization
E) Flexibility

Answer: D
Explanation: A) Incorrect. Power based on experience is gained or used when an individual relies on his or her unique experience to cultivate or use power over others. You have merely chosen an idea that is (or is perceived to be) congruent with the organizational values? legitimacy power.
B) Incorrect. You do not use any personal characteristics (charisma, physical attractiveness, etc.) to gain power. You have merely chosen an idea that is (or is perceived to be) congruent with the organizational values?legitimacy power.
C) Incorrect. This refers to effort power, and in this case, you do not commit extra time to implementing your idea. You have merely chosen an idea that is (or is perceived to be) congruent with the organizational values ?legitimacy power.
D) Correct. Behavior consistent with organizational values is called legitimacy power.
E) Incorrect. Flexibility is actually a type of positional power that refers to the amount of discretion one has in a particular position. You have merely chosen an idea that is (or is perceived to be) congruent with the organizational values?legitimacy power.