Lecture 11: Power and Politics

Question 1

Bases of power: formal power

Answer 1

Established by an individual’s power in an organisation

Three basis:

• Coercive power: a power base dependent on fear of negative results
• Reward power: compliance achieved based on the ability to distribute rewards that others view as valuable
• Legitimate power: the formal authority to control and use resources based on a person’s position in the formal hierarchy

Question 2

Bases of power: personal power

Answer 2

Power that comes from an individual’s unique characteristics there are the most effective

• Expert power: influence based on special skills or knowledge
• Referent power: influence based on possession by an individual of desirable resources or personal traits

*Most effective

Question 3

Power tactics and the 9 tactics

Answer 3

Power tactics are ways in which individuals translate power bases into specific action

1. Legitimacy
2. Rational persuasion
3. Inspirational appeals
4. Consultations
5. Exchange
6. Personal appeals
7. Ingratiation
8. Pressure
9. Coalitions

Question 4

Factors influencing power tactics

Answer 4

• Sequencing of tactics
• Political skill of the user
• The culture of the organisation

Question 5

Defensive behaviours

Answer 5

• Avoiding actions
• Avoiding blame
• Avoiding change

Question 6

Impression Managment (IM) and techniques

Answer 6

The process by which individuals attempt to control the impression others form of them

• Conformity
• Favours
• Excuses
• Apologies
• Self-promotion
• Enhancement
• Flattery
• Exemplification