Polices As Usual

In my experience working in Corporate America at a major financial institution and now at a not-for-profitprofit, I have found the workplace to be like a his, her, their, etc. political theater. In politics there are frameworks that shape the culture, and the distribution of power. Bolman and Deal explores different types of management styles and behaviors in organizations. Every organization operates uniquely with it’s own office politics that determines the power dynamic amongst individuals or groups.

The political frame has various aspects that impact an organization’s ability to function. In chapter nine of “Reframing Organizations: Artistry, Choice and Leadership” the main aspects are power, conflict, and coalition. (Bolman and Deal ) The political frame delves into the power dynamic inside an organization, the conflicts, and disputes that occur.

The power dynamic is a key component in comprehending the political frame. In most organizations there are various alliances and coalitions that have the power to control resources and decisions. Overview of the political frameworkFramework, According to these readings, political frameworks view organizations as sites of competition and conflict between individuals or groups. Bolman and Deal, list several propositions that summarize the prospective: access to power, competitiveness, manipulation, alliances,coalitions and partisan groups. (188). The other dynamic is the manager has to be a politician.(209).

Power Dynamic refers to accession in the political framework and how it can lead to disruptions in the organization. Bolman and Deal contend that there is an imbalance of power based on politics and may not necessarily be a problem but a sign that something is wrong. There is rarely enough to give everyone everything they want. Individuals compete for jobs, titles, and prestige. Conflict is normal and inevitable. It’s a natural by-product of collective life (203). Generally, the group or coalition that has the strongest alliances have more access to power and can influence strategies and operations in the organization to benefit their coalition. Competition Most organizations encourage competition but when you have politics in an organization it can lead to tension or disputes. When everyone competes for recognition or power, it becomes excessive it can be detrimental to success.

Manipulation is also a factor in the power dynamic because those who have access to more power use this tactic to get ahead. Beyond that, manipulation can destroy trust and respect. Denhardt’s book “ Managing Human Behavior in Public and Nonprofit Organizations” gives an analysis of power and politics in both sectors. Denhardt suggests that the power dynamic is critical for leadership to be effective. Denhardt suggests managing power and organizational politics has several strategies such as:

• Open communication and Collaboration

• Culture of transparency and accountability

• Controlling the Agenda Encourages Creativity

• Building relationships based on trust and respect. “Managing Human Behavior in Public and Nonprofit Organizations” (255 & 266).

The political frame provides a unique perspective on power and politics that is important for understanding how to manage human behavior in public and nonprofit organizations. Efficient leadership means having the emotional intelligence and ability to manage conflict, or disputes that arise from the access to power. One must learn about the strategies leaders of power dynamics use to ensure a fair and transparent political climate.

Works Cited

Bolman, Lee G., and Terrence E. Deal. Reframing Organizations: Artistry, Choice, and Leadership. John Wiley & Sons, Inc., 2021.

Denhardt, Robert B., et al. Managing Human Behavior in Public and Nonprofit Organizations. SAGE, 2012.