Power, Politics & Organizational Views

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Questions and Answers

Describe a situation where a manager might unintentionally adopt a 'unitarist' perspective. What potential problems could arise from this?

A manager might assume all employees share the same goals and are equally committed to the organization's success. This can lead them to ignore dissenting opinions, suppress conflict, and fail to address the diverse needs and interests of their team, ultimately decreasing productivity and satisfaction.

Explain how control over resources can be a source of power within an organization? Give a specific example.

Control over critical resources allows an individual or department to influence others who need those resources. For example, the IT department controls access to essential technology; they can exert power by prioritizing or delaying IT support for different departments.

Differentiate between the 'pluralist' and 'radical' perspectives on organizational power dynamics. How do their proposed solutions to conflict differ?

The 'pluralist' view acknowledges competing interests and power struggles occur within organizations and advocates for fair rules and procedures to manage conflict. 'Radical' perspectives see power imbalances as deeply embedded in the organizational structure and call for fundamental changes to redistribute power.

Imagine two employees vying for the same promotion. Describe how each might strategically use different sources of power to increase their chances of success.

<p>One employee might leverage their formal position and established relationships to gain support from key decision-makers. The other may use their expert knowledge and control of a critical project to demonstrate their value and indispensability, or even try and form a coalition.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How can understanding organizational politics be beneficial for employees who are not seeking positions of power?

<p>Understanding organizational politics can help any employee navigate the workplace more effectively. It helps one to anticipate potential conflicts, build alliances, and protect themselves from being negatively affected by the actions of others.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

What is Power?

The ability to influence others, even against their will.

"Unitarist" View

Assumes a unified org. where employees are loyal and aligned with management's interests.

"Pluralist" & "Radical" View

Acknowledges competing interests and power struggles within organizations.

Traditional "Rational" View

Organizations are viewed as harmonious units with shared goals.

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Sources of Power

Power comes from formal positions, relationships, or resource control.

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Study Notes

Power and politics exist within organizations
Power dynamics and competing interests are inherent in all organizations
This contrasts the traditional "rational" view that organizations function as harmonious units
The size or structure of an organization does not prevent the existence of power dynamics or competing interests

Unitarist View

Assumes a unified organization where employees are loyal
Assumes managers act in the best interests of all
Often held by managers
Downplays the role of politics and conflict

Pluralist and Radical Views

Acknowledge the existence of competing interests and power struggles within organizations
Understanding how power operates is important
Understanding the sources of power is crucial
Identify the potential for both positive and negative outcomes from power

Key points regarding power

Power is the ability to influence others, even against their will
Power can be derived from formal positions
Power can come from relationships
Control over resources provides power
Knowledge can be a source of power
The "Paradox of Power" suggests that both a lack of power and its abuse can be detrimental
Conflict and resistance within organizations are ignored by the unitarist view
Understanding power dynamics is crucial for effective and ethical management