Regardless of which country we live in, where we work or study, in which family nucleus we have been raised, we all know that there is always an authority figure that we must respect.
For example, in our family, above us are our parents and anyone who is older and more experienced. The same happens in the case of the student campus where we are enrolled. Inside the classroom, the one who takes the lead is the teacher. However, he himself is subject to one person, the director.
Like it or not, these people establish rules and standards of conduct that we must follow to the letter, so that things go well and, not only for that, but also to avoid facing the consequences of revolting.
No matter how much we like to make our own decisions and do things our own way, we will always have limits to respect and observe. Since the laws provide a certain degree of order and protection for all.
If the laws did not exist, an environment full of violence and anarchy would reign. Every country, city or town would be inhospitable and no one would live in safety. So, although many times these laws work against us, if we obey them, we will greatly contribute to the order and well-being of all.
On the other hand, for as long as we can remember, we have heard the word authority. In general, we do not usually associate it with pleasant things. However, is there anything else we should know? Do we know well what the word authority refers to?
If you have doubts about this, you don’t have to worry. Today we will be sharing with you this article that will surely be very useful to you. Therefore, we suggest you continue reading it.
Instructions
The word authority is of Latin origin and refers to the power that someone possesses, to a legitimately chosen leader and to someone who has received power over people or organizations.
In other words, and to make it more understandable, authority is the attribute that a person has, which is closely related to the trade or job position in which they perform.
He is the person who gives orders because he has the full right to do so. On the other hand, he receives the reward that his orders are not only listened to but also obeyed. That is, these are always fulfilled to the letter.
The level of authority is based, at all times, on the relationship that exists between the superior and the person who is subordinate to him. In this particular, it is important that both are clear about the role that each of them plays, so that misunderstandings do not arise in this regard.
The person who has this attribute is considered a leader and, therefore, has special powers that others do not have. For example, let’s go back to the case of the family, since it is the most basic role of authority that we are all aware of.
In it, it is the parents who have the ability to give orders, especially to their children because they are under their responsibility. For their part, the children have the duty to obey them, whether they think they are fair or not, until they are old enough, and economically independent, to make decisions on their own.
On the other hand, authority is closely related to the prestige and credibility that a person or organization has garnered over the years, thanks to its quality, importance, or preparation.
In order to simplify its definition, we could say that authority is considered a form of domination, since it implies the total obedience of others. In fact, if there is no one who obeys and complies with the rules, it is not possible that any kind of authority can be given.
In order to make it more practical, we can exemplify it with a case from everyday life. If a teacher orders her students to be silent, and they do not obey her, the teacher is not exercising the authority that is related to her role.
Now, what else can we say about authority and the way to exercise it? What do you need to know about this particular? In the following subtitle we will be clarifying some important aspects. For this reason you cannot stop reading even one of its lines.
What do you need:
At this point in the article, we can clarify that there are two types of authority that are clearly defined. In the first place, we have the legal authority , which is represented by who determines or imposes itself in a mandatory way.
However, this type of authority is subdivided into two parts. One of them is the formal one, which is the one exercised by a boss over his subordinates, and the operational one, which is particularly characterized by the power that one has to carry out a series of actions. That is, it is not exerted on people themselves.
For example, this is the case of a department head of a certain company who orders the purchase of materials that are intended for the development of work.
Now, the second type of authority is called moral. Thanks to it, people are given not only knowledge, but also prestige and position. Similarly, this can also be divided into two subcategories.
The first of these is the technical moral authority, which a certain person has as a result of his professional experience. For this reason, his opinion will always be considered valid and, therefore, will be taken into account. Especially in the area in which he works.
The second is what is known as professional moral authority. Thanks to his psychological, moral and social qualities, he is considered someone superior.
It is important to keep in mind that the word authority is closely related to the power that the State accumulates, through its rulers. Which were chosen according to the popular will. So this is where authority is related to power.
Given that, what else should you take into account about authority? Let’s see.
Tips
If it is the case that you have to exercise your authority, there are ways to do it that make it easier for others to follow instructions and obey.
For example, if you are the leader of a company, you need to show confidence in yourself. If you doubt your capabilities, what can you expect from others? On the other hand, it is important that you are able to teach by example and show empathy to your workers.
Doing so will make them feel more comfortable with you and the instructions you give. So they will be able to execute them willingly.
On the other hand, you must bear in mind that human relations play a fundamental role within a company. We must show you as a sincere, trustworthy and accessible person. Doing so will help everyone work together to meet the needs of everyone in the organization.
Remember that the purpose is not to place a heavy yoke of authority on your employees’ shoulders. On the contrary, if you do it this way, you will not achieve positive results. In fact, they may reveal themselves and give you a lot of headaches. Which we don’t want to happen, because it won’t get you anywhere.
It is in your hands whether or not to abuse the authority that you have been granted. However, you should keep in mind that, whether you want it or not, this will bring you consequences that you will regret if you manage to misuse your authority.