What does empowerment mean in this context?

• A. Only managers have the authority to resolve issues.
• B. Empowerment means that all team members have the authority and power to resolve issues for our members.
• C. Empowerment is unrelated to issue resolution.
• D. Empowerment means removing accountability.

Answer: (B)

Empowerment means giving team members the authority and responsibility to address and resolve member issues themselves, within defined guidelines. This approach speeds up service, fosters ownership, and shows members that help is available without having to wait for a manager. In this context, the idea is that every team member can take appropriate actions to resolve issues, not just managers, and not to ignore accountability. Empowerment does not remove accountability; it relies on clear boundaries, proper training, and ongoing responsibility to ensure issues are handled correctly. For example, a front-line staff member can assess a problem and take approved steps to fix it or escalate as needed, keeping the member supported throughout.