E.A. Lewis - Authority vs Power

Authority is the legal right to say “yes” and “no.” Managers usually have authority. They can give approval (or not) for new projects, spending limits, etc. Managers can authorize things like million dollar marketing plans.

Power is the ability to give and withhold cooperation. Employees usually have more power than authority. They can cooperate and do what management has told them to do, do nothing, or do something entirely different. Unhappy employees can slow production, delay delivery, and provide poor customer service all of which can pretty much ruin that million dollar marketing plan.

Knowing the difference can be helpful in terms of solving problems and gaining employee commitment.

Testimonials

“E.A. Lewis Consulting was hired to assist in efforts to improve morale in a warehouse environment. Ernie achieved such positive results that we expanded his project to include our sales and management teams. Ernie was also instrumental in our efforts to implement cost saving procedures. I would highly recommend E.A. Lewis Consulting.”

- George Evanoff

General Manager

"I have hired Ernie for eight years as a trainer for my Leadership Toledo classes and will continue to do so. He does a terrific job as an individual and team developer. He is bright, active, fun and creative. Ernie is also a wonderful volunteer to many organizations and causes. He is an all around class act! Contact Ernie. You will be glad you did.”

- Dave Schlaudecker

Executive Director

Leadership Toledo

“I have known Ernie for over ten years and have always been impressed by his professionalism, knowledge and experience. He truly cares for his clients and helps them to reach peak performance.”

Jan Weakland

Sales and Marketing Capabilities Project Manager, BP

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