Which power is characterized by a high degree of skill in a specific area?

The correct answer is characterized by the type of influence held by individuals who possess a deep knowledge or high level of expertise in a particular field. This is known as expert power, where the individual’s skill set, experience, and proficiency make them a valuable resource within an organization. Colleagues and subordinates are likely to respect and follow the guidance of someone who demonstrates a high level of competency, leading to a natural authority that comes from their ability to provide expert insights or solutions.

In contrast, informational power involves controlling access to the information others need but doesn’t necessarily require deep skill in a specific area. Reverent power, on the other hand, arises from personal traits or qualities that inspire admiration or respect, rather than technical expertise. Reward power pertains to the ability to give benefits or rewards to others, which can be based on position or authority rather than specialized knowledge. Thus, expert power distinctly stands out as it derives satisfaction from the skills and knowledge possessed in a specific domain, making it the most fitting choice.