What term describes the ability to influence people toward achieving organizational objectives?

The term that best describes the ability to influence people toward achieving organizational objectives is power. Power encompasses the capacity to facilitate change and guide others in their actions and decisions in a way that aligns with the goals of the organization. It is a broader concept involving various forms of influence—such as positional power, expert power, and personal power—that can motivate and inspire individuals to work collaboratively toward common aims.

In contrast, authority pertains to the formal rights or privileges granted to an individual based on their position within the organization. While authority can come with power, it does not necessarily guarantee influence over others unless utilized effectively. Management refers to the process of planning, organizing, leading, and controlling resources to achieve specified goals, and while it is linked to authority and power, it is more about the functions of leadership rather than the ability to influence. The term influence is closely related to power, as it implies the capacity to sway or affect others, but it does not capture the larger framework that power encompasses within an organization.

Thus, power is a comprehensive term that effectively represents the capability to influence others and achieve organizational objectives.