Like power, the term politics in organizations may conjure up a few negative images. However, organizational politics is not necessarily negative. Rather it is the use of power and influence in organizations. Organizations are arenas in which people have competing interests which effective managers are able to reconcile. To do this, managers need to understand the role that political skill plays in organizational influence. Consider how they may do this to prepare for the discussion this week.

Please respond to all of the following prompts:

a) How do organizations encourage political activity?

b) How can managers prevent the negative consequences of political behavior?

c) Which influence tactics are most effective?

d) Explain the reactions supervisors can have to influence tactics.