In order to be successful in the corporate world, people need power. The types of power available are formal power and informal power. Smart corporate politicians will build their base of power in many different ways. The power of role and the expectations associated with a role or job title. Things can be done in that period that may not be accomplished at other times.
Expectations regarding a new role are fuzzy, possibly minimizing position power.
The ability to provide something of value to another. Informal power is less well understood, however, it is far stronger than formal power over the long term. The power of respect gained as a result of what we know and what we can do. It is important to consider the personality type of the target of influence when selecting a power strategy. Accepting flexible outcomes, while relying on formal power.