Authority
Culture Type
The embodiment of strength.
Teams with the Authority culture type act decisively, thanks to their respect for strong leadership. Only the strongest team members enter leadership positions. When Authority teams have a strong leader, action is taken without hesitation and the chain of command is not up for debate.
Managers of teams with the Authority culture type are commanders who make bold decisions on behalf of their team. They are sometimes monitors who communicate strategies dictated from higher up and make sure these commands are carried out. They are important links in a chain of command that links all levels of the organization.
Teams with Authority Cultures
Military
The armed services are the classic home of Authority culture. A perfectly codified chain of command creates a structured approach to work. Motivation often comes from commitment to the organization and its members, which allows military units to take on a variety of missions that encompass a wide range of real-world contexts.
Strengths of Authority Cultures
Act quickly and decisively
Able to perform in stressful situations
Team members take direction well
Weaknesses of Authority Cultures
Can be high-stress environments
Competition for promotions leads to infighting
Boldness can expose organization to risk
Did you know?
People who thrive in Authority cultures should probably steer clear of Purpose cultures. They may find themselves lacking direction when asked to work towards an abstract, long-term vision, rather than an immediate, concrete directive.