What is Apparent Authority ?
‘Apparent Authority’ is the implied authority that is assumed by an employee in some situations where this employee’s authority is not implicitly or explicitly stated.
For example, if the manager buys any new hardware for the company, he does so, under the ‘apparent authority’ given by the company. He does not have the right to actually buy it. He assumes the responsibility for the greater good of the company and others will agree with the apparent authority exhibited by this manager in this context.
The concept of ‘apparent authority’ is especially important concerning HR, as such instances of assuming apparent authority are necessary for the smooth functioning of an organisation.