Which type of power is characterized by having access to exclusive knowledge?

The type of power characterized by having access to exclusive knowledge is informational power. This form of power arises from an individual's ability to access and control information that is not readily available to others. When someone possesses specialized knowledge or information, it can create an advantage, allowing them to influence or guide others based on that knowledge. This can be particularly impactful in organizational or leadership contexts, where decision-making often relies on access to relevant data or insight.

While other forms of power—such as personality power, assumed expertise, and relational power—play significant roles in influence and authority, they operate under different principles. Personality power is derived from an individual's charisma and personal traits, while assumed expertise relies on others’ belief in someone’s skills or knowledge without substantial proof. Relational power stems from the connections and relationships one has within a network. In contrast, informational power is specifically about knowledge access, making it unique and essential in many scenarios.