Power and Politics in Organizations

Unit 1 – Power Theories in Organizational Context

Unit 2 – Leadership and Influence in Organizations

Unit 3 – Organizational Structure & Hierarchy

Unit 4 – Coalitions and Alliances in Organizations

Unit 5 – Conflict and Negotiation in Organizations

Unit 6 – Organizational Culture & Power Dynamics

Unit 7 – Decision-Making in Organizations

Unit 8 – Resistance and Empowerment in Organizations

Unit 9 – Ethics in Organizational Politics

Unit 10 – Diversity and Power in Organizations

Unit 11 – Political Skill and Emotional Intelligence

## What do you learn in Power and Politics in Organizations

You'll explore how power dynamics and political behavior shape organizations. The course covers leadership strategies, influence tactics, conflict resolution, and decision-making processes. You'll analyze organizational structures, examine power sources, and learn how to navigate workplace politics effectively. It's all about understanding the hidden forces that drive business relationships and outcomes.

## Is Power and Politics in Organizations hard?

It's not typically considered one of the toughest business courses, but it can be challenging in its own way. The concepts aren't super math-heavy, but you'll need to think critically and apply theories to real-world scenarios. Some students find it easier than number-crunching classes, while others struggle with the nuanced nature of organizational behavior. Your experience may depend on how well you can analyze complex social dynamics.

## Tips for taking Power and Politics in Organizations in college

1. Use [Fiveable Study Guides](https://fiveable.me/cram-mode) to help you cram 🌶️
2. Pay attention to current events in business and politics - they're great real-world examples
3. Practice applying theories to case studies - it'll help you understand the concepts better
4. Form study groups to discuss and debate different perspectives on power dynamics
5. Watch "House of Cards" or "Succession" for entertaining examples of organizational politics
6. Read "The 48 Laws of Power" by Robert Greene for a deep dive into power dynamics
7. Keep a journal of power plays you observe in your own life or internships

## Common pre-requisites for Power and Politics in Organizations

1. Introduction to Management: This course covers basic management principles and functions. You'll learn about planning, organizing, leading, and controlling in various organizational contexts.

2. Organizational Behavior: This class focuses on understanding human behavior in organizational settings. You'll explore topics like motivation, group dynamics, and organizational culture.

## Classes similar to Power and Politics in Organizations

1. Leadership and Team Management: Focuses on developing leadership skills and managing group dynamics. You'll learn about different leadership styles and how to build effective teams.

2. Negotiation and Conflict Resolution: Teaches strategies for successful negotiations and managing conflicts. You'll practice techniques for finding win-win solutions in various business scenarios.

3. Business Ethics: Examines ethical issues in the business world. You'll explore moral dilemmas, corporate social responsibility, and ethical decision-making frameworks.

4. Organizational Change Management: Covers strategies for implementing and managing change in organizations. You'll learn about resistance to change, change models, and how to lead successful transformations.

## Majors related to Power and Politics in Organizations

1. Business Administration: Provides a broad understanding of business functions and management principles. Students learn about finance, marketing, operations, and strategy.

2. Organizational Psychology: Focuses on applying psychological principles to workplace settings. Students study human behavior, motivation, and group dynamics in organizational contexts.

3. Public Administration: Prepares students for leadership roles in government and non-profit organizations. The curriculum covers policy-making, public management, and organizational theory.

4. Human Resource Management: Concentrates on managing an organization's workforce. Students learn about recruitment, training, compensation, and employee relations.

## What can you do with a degree in Power and Politics in Organizations?

1. Management Consultant: Advises organizations on improving their performance and efficiency. You'll analyze business problems, develop solutions, and help implement changes.

2. Human Resources Manager: Oversees an organization's HR functions and policies. You'll handle recruitment, employee relations, and help shape organizational culture.

3. Political Analyst: Examines political trends, policies, and their impact on organizations. You'll provide insights to help businesses navigate political landscapes and make strategic decisions.

4. Corporate Trainer: Develops and delivers training programs to improve employee skills and performance. You'll use your knowledge of organizational dynamics to create effective learning experiences.

## Power and Politics in Organizations FAQs

1. How relevant is this course for entrepreneurship? It's highly relevant as entrepreneurs need to understand power dynamics to build and lead successful startups. You'll learn valuable skills for networking, negotiating with investors, and managing team dynamics.

2. Does this course cover international business politics? Many programs include a global perspective, examining how power and politics differ across cultures. You'll likely explore case studies from various countries and multinational corporations.

3. How much group work is typically involved? Most courses include some group projects or simulations to practice political skills. These activities help you apply theories and develop practical experience in navigating organizational dynamics.

Business Management

1.1 French and Raven's bases of power

1.2 Resource dependence theory

1.3 Institutional theory

1.4 Marxist theory

1.5 Foucault's theory of power

2.1 Transformational leadership

2.3 Charismatic leadership

2.2 Transactional leadership

2.5 Power and leadership effectiveness

2.4 Influence tactics

3.1 Bureaucratic structure

3.2 Matrix structure

3.4 Centralization vs. decentralization

3.3 Flat organizations

3.5 Span of control

4.1 Formation of coalitions

4.3 Informal networks

4.4 Social capital

4.2 Benefits and drawbacks of alliances

4.5 Stakeholder management

5.1 Sources of organizational conflict

5.2 Conflict management strategies

5.3 Negotiation tactics

5.4 Mediation and arbitration

5.5 Conflict resolution models

6.1 Types of organizational culture

6.2 Subcultures

6.3 Socialization processes

6.5 Power and culture

6.4 Symbols and artifacts

7.1 Rational decision-making

7.2 Bounded rationality

7.4 Participative decision-making

7.5 Power and decision-making

7.3 Groupthink

8.1 Employee resistance

8.4 Unionization

8.2 Empowerment strategies

8.3 Whistleblowing

8.5 Organizational change and power

9.3 Ethical leadership

9.5 Codes of conduct

9.1 Ethical decision-making

9.4 Moral dilemmas in organizations

9.2 Corporate social responsibility

10.1 Diversity management

10.3 Glass ceiling

10.2 Inclusion strategies

10.5 Power and privilege

10.4 Discrimination and bias

11.2 Emotional intelligence

11.4 Networking

11.3 Impression management

11.5 Influence and persuasion

11.1 Components of political skill

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