lit ch5

Question 1

Power

Answer 1

Power is the ability to change other people’s behavior and make them do what you want. Soft power refers to the ability to influence and make people think like you.

Example: In an organizational context, power can be possessed in two ways.

Structural power is derived from factors such as organizational position, access to information, and problem-solving roles.

Individual power can stem from attributes like emotional intelligence, flexibility, and the willingness to confront others

Question 2

Politics

Answer 2

Politics can be defined in two broad categories. One perspective sees politics as negative and self-serving, while the other views it more neutrally and recognizes its potential benefits.
Example: Different perspectives on organizations shape the understanding of politics. Unitarist perspective emphasizes cooperation and collaboration, considering any activities against organizational goals as irrational and shady. Pluralist perspective sees politics as various organizational subgroups competing for limited resources

Question 3

Clever vs Wise Politician

Answer 3

Politicians can be categorized as clever or wise. Both types understand organizational politics, but a clever politician focuses on self-interest, while a wise politician prioritizes the interests of the organization. Organizations can be likened to stadiums where politicians play, and perceiving politics as important is crucial

Question 4

coalition

Answer 4

Coalitions as Political Alliances:
Explanation: A coalition is a group of individuals who share common interests and perspectives related to a specific change. They collaborate and dedicate resources to achieve their shared objectives.

Example: Coalitions form to leverage power and influence by uniting those who support or oppose a particular change. By recognizing common interests, coalitions can amplify exposure and exert influence within an organization

Question 5

Issue selling

Answer 5

Issue selling involves competing for top management attention by presenting change ideas effectively. It requires strategic, relational, and normative knowledge.
Example: Issue sellers aim to capture senior management attention through logical connections to the business plan, persistence in ingraining ideas, and incrementally presenting proposals. Bundling issues with other organizational goals can demonstrate their importance

Question 6

Stakeholder mapping and Power intrest Mapping

Answer 6

Stakeholder mapping involves systematically identifying and understanding the political dimensions of a specific change. It helps reduce resistance by recognizing and engaging affected groups and individuals.
Example: Using the power interest matrix, stakeholder mapping identifies key stakeholders and their positions in relation to the change. It provides insight into the political landscape and allows for targeted engagement

Question 7

Issue sellers kinds of knowledge

Answer 7

Strategic - external environment
Relational- social relations
Normative - situational behaviour& understanding of organisational norms