42 Questions
What is organizational culture defined as?
A system of shared assumptions, values, and beliefs
What is the term for a culture that emerges within different departments, branches, or geographic locations?
Subculture
Why may different subcultures arise within an organization?
Due to both the personal characteristics of employees and managers, as well as the different conditions under which work is performed
Which of the following is an example of a subculture?
A culture that emphasizes innovativeness in the marketing department
What is a characteristic of the manufacturing department's culture?
Emphasis on detail orientation
How many different subcultures were uncovered in a single police organization in a research study?
Five
What is the primary reason why managers need to understand subculture values?
To see its impact on workforce behavior and attitudes
What is a counterculture?
A subculture that is in direct opposition to the values of the broader organizational culture
According to Schein, what is the deepest level of organizational culture?
Basic assumptions
What is the purpose of observing an organization's artifacts during an interview?
To get a sense of the organization's values and assumptions
What is the outcome of differences in basic assumptions between departments or subcultures?
Source of conflict
What is the primary difference between a subculture and a counterculture?
A subculture is a group that agrees with the organization's values, while a counterculture is a group that opposes them
What is the relationship between employee perceptions regarding subcultures and employee commitment?
Employee perceptions are positively correlated with employee commitment
What is the purpose of understanding an organization's culture?
To understand the organization's values and assumptions
What is an example of an artifact that reflects an organization's values?
An executive 'open door' policy
Why is it important for employees to understand the type of subculture in their department?
To align their personal assumptions and values with the department's subculture
What is one way to uncover the values and assumptions that shape an organization's culture?
By observing how employees interact and make choices
What is the benefit of having a rare and hard-to-imitate organizational culture?
It can provide a competitive advantage
According to Kihlstrom, what is as important as strategy in terms of organizational performance?
Company culture
What is an example of a company that may benefit from a culture that encourages innovativeness and adaptability?
A company in the high-tech industry
What is a potential consequence of having the 'wrong' culture in an organization?
Organizational failure
Why is culture a more effective control mechanism for dictating employee behavior than organizational rules and regulations?
Because rules are often less helpful in unique situations
What is the benefit of having a culture of respect, civility, and inclusion in the workplace?
It can help to keep workplace conflict functional and productive
What is the main reason for adapting your communication style?
To suit the situation, the audience, and the purpose
What is conflict management?
The practice of being able to identify and manage conflicts sensibly, fairly, and efficiently
What is the collaborating conflict management style?
A style that produces the best long-term results, but is frequently the most difficult and time-consuming to achieve
Which of the following can create conflicts in organizational culture?
Different levels of power and authority
What is the purpose of aligning values and goals with the vision and mission of the organization?
To manage and resolve conflicts
Why is it important for organizations to have people who understand conflicts and know how to resolve them?
Because conflicts are a natural part of the workplace
How can employees be encouraged to embrace and benefit from change and innovation?
By creating a culture of learning, curiosity, and adaptability
What is the outcome of not establishing clear rules, policies, and procedures in an organization?
Conflicts and issues related to power and authority
What is essential for resolving conflicts generated by different values and goals?
Negotiation and compromise
Which conflict management style is used when it is critical to maintain all parties' relationships or when the solution itself will have a significant impact?
Collaborating
What is the outcome of using the competing conflict management style?
It quickly resolves disputes but has a high risk of lowering morale and productivity
What is the purpose of the accommodating conflict management style?
To put the needs of the other party ahead of one's own
When is the accommodating conflict management style used?
When you don't care as much about the issue as the other person
What is the outcome of using the compromising conflict management style?
It breeds resentment, especially when used excessively
What is one of the most common sources of conflict in organizational culture?
Diversity and inclusion
What can lead to misunderstandings, stereotypes, discrimination, and resentment among employees?
Poorly managed diversity and inclusion
Why can communication styles lead to conflict in organizational culture?
Because they are influenced by factors such as personality, culture, and gender
What is the goal of using the avoiding conflict management style?
To reduce conflict by ignoring it or removing the conflicting parties
What can happen if avoidance is used in place of proper conflict resolution?
Conflict is put off indefinitely and can lead to more conflicts in the future
Test your understanding of organizational culture, including its definition, levels, strength, and importance. This quiz also covers organizational subcultures and how they interact within a company.
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