Organizational Politics

Definition

Organizational politics refer to social influence attempts aimed at those who provide rewards to promote or protect self-interests.
Politics are intrinsic to work organizations and are necessary for influencing others.

Employees' perceptions vary based on their experiences with politics.
- Negative perception: when affected adversely.
- Positive perception: when interests are advanced.
Understanding these perceptions is crucial for effective management.

Conflict
- Political behavior can threaten others' self-interests, leading to conflict.
Uncertainty
- Ambiguity in work environments increases political behavior.
- Lack of specific rules causes employees to create self-serving rules.
Scarcity of Resources
- Competition for limited resources (e.g., raises, office space) promotes political behavior.
Conflict Avoidance
- Some individuals avoid conflict by yielding to others' influence, which is a form of political behavior.
Organizational Policies
- Compensation and reward systems may inadvertently favor political behaviors.

Controlling Information: Restricting information to certain individuals.
Controlling Communication: Using gatekeepers to limit access to information.
Using Outside Experts: Hiring consultants to support management's objectives.
Controlling the Agenda: Ensuring only specific topics are discussed.
Game Playing: Leaking information, influencing decisions through allies, etc.
Image Building: Using spin doctors to enhance one's image.
Building Coalitions: Forming alliances with powerful individuals or groups.
Controlling Decision Parameters: Influencing decisions before they are made.
Eliminating Political Rivals: Removing rivals by promoting them out of the way.

Managing politics involves managing power and building trust.
Encouraging openness and allowing free discussion diminishes the need for political behavior.