Politics and Power Flashcards
(19 cards)
What is the definition of power in organizations?
Capability one party has to affect the actions of another.
Power is influenced by the attractiveness of rewards and respect for knowledge.
What is the definition of influence in an organizational context?
One party induces another to behave in a certain way.
Influence is often referred to as power in action.
List the nine influencing tactics identified in research.
- Assertiveness
- Bargaining
- Coalition
- Consultation
- Higher authority
- Ingratiation
- Inspirational appeal
- Personal appeal
- Reason
These tactics are used for interpersonal influence in organizations.
What are Cohen & Bradford’s identified rewards for influencing others?
- Resources
- Information
- Advancement
- Recognition
- Network / contacts
- Personal support
- Assistance
- Cooperation
These are termed ‘organisational currencies’.
What does the political view of organizations emphasize?
Individuals and groups often try to achieve their own goals, with those in power more likely to succeed.
This view contrasts with the rational perspective that focuses solely on agreed organizational goals.
What are the three factors contributing to political behavior in organizations?
- Personal characteristics
- Decisional characteristics
- Structural characteristics
These factors influence the likelihood of political behavior occurring.
What are the personal characteristics that can influence political behavior?
- Need for power
- Machiavellian behavior
- Locus of control
- Risk-taking propensity
Each characteristic affects how individuals engage in political behavior.
What is the ‘Dark Triad’ in organizational behavior?
- Machiavellianism
- Narcissism
- Psychopathy
These traits are associated with negative workplace behaviors.
What is the relationship between dark leaders and employee turnover?
Dark leaders are correlated with higher turnover and low job satisfaction.
This correlation is linked to abusive supervision.
What cautions are advised when managing organizational psychopaths?
Beware of misdiagnosis; some psychopaths cannot be managed.
Consulting experts can help, but challenges remain.
What are some options for managing organizational psychopaths?
- Fair HR policies
- Positive team building
- Training and coaching
- Exit interviews
These strategies aim to reduce exploitation and enhance communication.
What distinguishes structured from unstructured decisions?
Structured decisions are routine, while unstructured decisions involve goals and strategies.
Higher levels in organizations tend to deal with more unstructured decisions.
What are the categories of political games identified by Mintzberg?
- Authority games
- Power base games
- Rivalry games
- Change games
These games reflect the dynamics of power and politics in organizations.
What is the purpose of authority games in organizations?
To resist or counter formal authority.
These games often involve lower and higher-level managers.
What are examples of power base games?
- Sponsorship
- Alliance
- Empire building
These games are tactics to enhance personal power.
What issues do women managers face in organizational politics?
- Personality stereotypes
- Old boy networks
- Long working hours
- Unethical leadership
These factors contribute to the underrepresentation of women in senior management.
What solutions are proposed for women navigating leadership obstacles?
- Awareness of prejudice
- Changing work culture
- Less subjective evaluations
- Supportive mentoring
- Family-friendly HR practices
These solutions aim to facilitate women’s advancement in management.
How is sexual harassment defined under Australian legislation?
An unwelcome sexual advance or request that makes a person feel offended or intimidated.
The definition emphasizes the subjective nature of harassment.
What role do managers have in addressing sexual harassment?
- Ensure policies are known
- Assure no retaliation
- Investigate complaints
- Enforce penalties
- Raise awareness
Effective management is crucial for handling harassment cases.
