A pilot test on sub-dimensional relational power bases

This paper extends research on relational power where power is defined as power stemming from the relationship between a leader and a follower. The pilot study tests the sub-domains of relational power sources based on the Chinese indigenous concept, guanxi (personal relationships). The results of the exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were consistent with our prediction suggesting that relational power may be further categorized into four/five sub-domains. The study, being the first one to develop a comprehensive guanxi/relational power scale including affection-, obligation-, instrumental-, sincerity- and network-based, advances our understanding on the indicators/components of guanxi/relational power bases, which contributes to future empirical studies. Implications, limitations, and directions for future research are addressed.