Referent power is primarily influenced by?

Referent power is primarily influenced by personal traits and charisma because it derives from the ability of an individual to attract others and gain their respect and admiration. This type of power is often tied to the personality and character of the individual, as well as their ability to connect with others on an emotional level.

When someone possesses charisma, they can inspire and motivate people to follow them, creating a strong bond of loyalty and trust. This is particularly important in leadership roles, such as those found in fire and emergency services, where the ability to influence and lead a team is essential for effective operations.

In contrast, formal authority pertains to the position held within an organization, which does not necessarily equate to having the admiration or influence that comes from referent power. While knowledge and expertise can contribute to a leader's effectiveness, they do not inherently create the emotional connection that characterizes referent power. Similarly, the use of rewards is linked to transactional leadership styles rather than the interpersonal connections that form the basis of referent power.