The Power scale measures desire for success, accomplishment, and status. Those that score high tend to aspire for leadership positions, enjoy telling others what to do, and are driven to succeed. When we encounter moderate or low scores, we can look to the item themes to gain a better understanding of how the value operates for the individual. Below is more detail around the specific item themes as they relate to the Power scale.

Lifestyles

When individuals endorse most of the items for lifestyles, we can infer they likely are concerned about being successful in most situations. These individuals will also prefer being in charge of others. These are the kinds of people that are always up for a challenge, and will tend to view most events as a competition. These people will likely prefer to stay busy, and may be preoccupied with thoughts of being successful and getting ahead. On the other hand, when people score lower on Lifestyles, we can assume they prefer others to take the lead and are less concerned about success and status. These individuals may prefer activities that don’t involve competition.

Beliefs

People scoring high on Beliefs tend to view the world through a competitive lens. These people would likely agree with the old quote “Winning isn’t everything; it’s the only thing”. They may also aspire to be the greatest person in whatever it is that matters most to them. Individuals high on Beliefs also tend to hold leaders in high regard. However, those scoring lower on Beliefs may not value taking the lead on projects as often. They may also tend to place less emphasis on competition and being successful, and may instead be motivated by other outcomes.

Occupational Preferences

When people score high on Occupational Preferences for Power, we can infer they will prefer jobs that allow them the opportunity to demonstrate their ability, as well as allow them to lead and influence other people. These same individuals may also believe that they are better suited for management as compared to others they’ve previously interacted with. Having the opportunity to succeed and advance will likely be a core driver when seeking out places of employment or opportunities within their organisation. On the other hand, lower scores may likely choose more “follower” type jobs, or jobs that require less influence.

Aversions

The Aversion items provide us with additional information regarding attitudes towards people, beliefs, or behaviors that are in opposition to that value. People scoring higher on Aversions tend to dislike other people that do not value Power. These individuals tend to become annoyed with others who they see as being lazy, complacent, or risk averse. On the contrary, lower scorers tend to be more tolerant of others that do not strive as hard to get ahead or work to influence others.

Preferred Associates

Individuals scoring high on Preferred Associates prefer to be around others that share the same value. Regarding Power, higher scores will tend to associate with friends and colleagues that have a reputation for being ambitious, competitive, and willing to take the occasional risk. In addition, high scorers will tend to surround themselves with those who strive to be successful in all they do. On the other hand, lower scorers will tend to associate with either a variety of individuals, or those who do not seek out competition as strongly as higher scorers. Additionally, they may also prefer to be around people that take a “play it safe” approach.