What type of power might a leader have if they possess acknowledged expertise in their field?

When a leader possesses acknowledged expertise in their field, they are demonstrating expert power. This type of power arises from an individual's knowledge, skills, and experience that are recognized and valued by others. As a result, people are more likely to follow this leader or take their advice seriously because they trust in their expertise and believe that the leader is competent in their area of specialization.

In organizations, expert power can significantly influence team dynamics and decision-making, as individuals tend to defer to those whom they view as knowledgeable. This form of power is particularly effective in contexts where specialized knowledge is required, such as technology, finance, or medicine, and it can lead to greater trust and respect within teams.

Connection power, which is based on relationships and networking, and legitimate power, which stems from a position of authority within the organization, do not inherently rely on an individual’s expertise. Reverent power, which relates to the charisma or personal appeal of a leader, similarly does not necessitate acknowledged expertise. Thus, expert power stands out as the correct answer because it directly correlates with having recognized authority due to specialized knowledge.