Power And Politics

670 Words3 Pages
Power and Politics The definition of Power could be; the authority of control over others. The definition of Politics could be; to interact with people in a diplomatic, canny, deceitful way. This paper will show the comparison of power and politics in organizations and an analysis of management and leadership practices that impact organizations. This paper will also include two real life examples. Power and Politics can be described as “the last dirty words.” (Robbins & Judge, 2009, p. 450) Power can be divided into five principles or bases, the two main bases are formal and personal power. Formal power can be divided into three principles; coercive, reward and legitimate power. Personal power can be divided into two principles; expert and referent power. Politics within an organization is considered to be organizational politics or political behavior. Political behavior can be defined as an influence or attempt to influence the administration of recognition and disservice. A broader definition would include behavior such as; withholding essential information from key staff members, entering a coalition, whistle blowing, spread of rumors, breach of confidentiality and more. Managers and leaders impact organizations when any particular manger or leader implements the use of power tactics and or political behavior. In an organization leaders tend to use power tactics or influence tactics such as legitimacy, and or exchange tactics. Leaders also tend to make use of some political tactics such as blaming others, and or passing the buck. The use of power tactics and or political behavior impacts an organization which will cause five different reactions from employees; 1. An employee may feel threatened 2. Decreased job satisfaction 3. Increased anxiety and stress 4. Increased turnover 5. Reduced performance. The first real life example took place at a
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