Final answer:
The correct answer is option c. Given Kenneth Chenault's positive perception at American Express, the most successful influence tactic he could use is inspirational appeals. This approach is effective for leaders who are charismatic and admired, as it aligns corporate objectives with employees' personal values, thereby gaining their commitment.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question involves a study of influence tactics within a business or organizational context, particularly related to leadership and employee management. In the case of Kenneth Chenault, who was a highly regarded figure during his tenure at American Express, the most successful influence tactic he could use, given his status and the positive perception of his employees, is likely c. inspirational appeals. This tactic involves appealing to targets' values, emotions, and beliefs to gain their commitment.
Inspirational appeals are particularly effective when the leader has a charismatic persona and is greatly admired, as Chenault was. His position as a transformative leader means that he inspired his team through his vision and passion. He could use his reputation and the respect he commands to influence his employees by aligning corporate objectives with their personal values and thus incentivizing them to work towards common goals.
Other tactics like rational persuasion (using logical arguments and factual evidence), consultation (seeking the target’s participation in planning a strategy or change), and legitimating tactics (basing a request on one’s authority or right, organizational rules or policies, or express or implied support from superiors) could also be used by someone of Chenault's stature, but none would likely be as compelling as inspirational appeals in making a lasting impact on employee's attitudes and behaviors.