Referent power is particularly useful for individuals with what type of position?

Referent power is most effective for individuals who have weak or no positional authority because it relies on the personal attributes and relationships of the individual rather than their official title or position within an organization. This type of power is rooted in the respect, admiration, and trust that others have for a person, which can lead to influence and the ability to motivate and inspire others to follow their lead or support their initiatives.

Individuals lacking strong positional authority can still leverage their personal qualities—such as charisma, integrity, and interpersonal skills—to build rapport and foster loyalty among colleagues. This can be particularly beneficial in situations where formal authority may not be sufficient to create cooperation or drive change. Since referent power is based on personal connections, it can often lead to more genuine and committed followership, as people are more likely to support someone they respect and feel close to, irrespective of that individual's official standing within the organization.