Difficult to define, similar to words like "charisma".
Metaphors to understand organizational culture:
Container Metaphor: Organization as a container with internal activities (Problematic as it ignores external influences).
Organism Metaphor: Organization as a living being where all parts are interconnected and affect each other.
Tribe Metaphor: Organization as a tribe with interactions, where culture is created through communication and interaction.
Organizational Communication
Interpersonal communication within an organizational context.
Key elements of organizational culture (Textbook page 237):
Language Choices: Use of "I" vs. "We" language to indicate engagement and connection.
Stories and Myths: Storytelling shapes organizational folklore. Stories told upon joining and passed on indicate cultural values.
Rites and Rituals: Repeated patterns of behavior such as promotions, retirement parties, awards, and specific company rituals (e.g., graduation rituals, "Bald and Blue" day at Zappos).
Elements Shaping Organizational Culture
Attention: Focus areas of the leader (successes, problems, specific people).
Reaction to Critical Incidents: Leader's behavior during crises (cool-headed vs. detached).
Resource Allocation: Distribution of money and resources indicating priorities.
Role Modeling: Leader acting as a boss or a coach.
Rewards: Use of reward and coercive power.
Selection: Hiring and promotion practices affecting organizational diversity.
Pygmalion Effect
Influence of leaders on followers' self-perception and capabilities.
High, realistic expectations encourage followers to achieve their best:
Challenge employees while maintaining attainable goals.
Assign new employees to effective and experienced managers.
Use inclusive language suggesting all can be high achievers.
Avoid exclusive language suggesting only a few can succeed.