subject: Organizational Politics [print this page] Power & politics is the name of the game in almost all organizations. It involves intentional acts of influence to enhance or protect the self-interest of individuals & group.We are basically power hungry.Thescarcity ofresources is the basic reason of this power game.
Five Common Sources of uncertainty within Organizations
Unclear objectives.
Vague performance measures.
Ill-defined decision processes.
Strong individual or group competition.
Any type of change in organization or environments.
Political Tactics Used in Organizations.
Attacking or blaming others.
Using information as apolitical tool.
Creating a favorable image (impression management)
Forming powerful coalitions with strong allies.
Associating with influential people.
Creating obligations (Creating social debts)
Tips for Managing Organization Politics
1. Reduce Uncertainty in the system
Make clear the bases & processes for evaluation.
Differentiate rewards among high & low performers.
Make immediate & performance related rewards.
2. Reduce Competition
Try to minimize resource competition among managers.
Promotion should be based on an attitude that puts organization interests ahead of personal power interests.
Strategies to Gain Power
Maintain contact with powerful people.
Embrace or Demolish.
Divide & rule.
Manipulate / use classified information.
Make a quick showing.
Collect & use IOU.
Avoid decision-engagement.
Progress one step at a time.
Wait for crises. 10. Take counsel with care.
Personal Initiative :
1. Go beyond the Job: Do more than you are asked to do. Identify & fix problems. Help things move along quickly & smoothly.
2. Follow Through On New Ideas: Work on some thing original. Building support for new ideas.
3. Don't be Defeated by Criticism--Learn from it:Improve your ideas from reactions, comments and criticism. Build bridges of support by incorporating other's ideas.
4.Look ahead & around: Look around for interesting projects. Build your network to learn new things and find new opportunities.
