Supervision in the Hospitality Industry- AHLEI Practice Test

Which of the following statements about supervisors and power is true?

1. Supervisors don't have much power.

2. Supervisors have a great deal of hierarchical power.

3. Supervisors have a great deal of personal power.

4. Supervisors should use power to make their employees afraid of them.

The correct answer is: Supervisors have a great deal of personal power.

Supervisors possess a significant amount of personal power, which is derived from their ability to build relationships and influence their team members. This type of power is based on trust, respect, and the ability to inspire and motivate employees. A supervisor who has personal power can foster a positive work environment, encourage collaboration, and enhance employee performance by actively engaging with their team members. Personal power is particularly important in the hospitality industry, where interactions with staff can significantly impact customer service and overall guest experiences. When supervisors establish strong relationships, they cultivate loyalty and commitment among employees, which can lead to higher satisfaction and productivity levels. The concept of personal power contrasts sharply with the idea that supervisors rely solely on hierarchical power, which may not be as effective in motivating employees. Effective supervision is rooted in the ability to connect with staff members on a personal level and to lead by example rather than through fear or intimidation, making personal power a critical component of successful leadership in the hospitality context.