Final Answer:
In the context of contingency approaches to power, Pfeffer suggests that power comes from being in the "right" place, referring to a position in the organization where the manager has access to critical resources and information.
Step-by-step explanation:
Pfeffer's perspective on power within organizations aligns with contingency theory, which posits that the effectiveness of managerial actions depends on the specific circumstances or context in which they occur. In this case, the "right" place or position in the organization is characterized by the manager's strategic access to key resources and information.
Contingency approaches to power recognize that power dynamics within an organization are not solely determined by personal traits or positional authority. Instead, the effectiveness of a manager's power is contingent upon the unique features of the organizational context. Pfeffer emphasizes that being in a position where one can control or influence critical resources and access privileged information enhances a manager's power.
In practical terms, this means that managers who occupy roles where they can allocate resources, control decision-making processes, or possess key information are better positioned to wield power. This aligns with the broader understanding that power in organizations is often derived from the ability to navigate and leverage contextual factors effectively.
In conclusion, Pfeffer's contingency approach underscores the importance of understanding the situational aspects of power within organizations. Managers who find themselves in positions where they can strategically control resources and information are likely to exert more influence and power within their organizational context.