Organizing Power

Power is essential for future managers to understand, and this innovative text examines how it operates in organizations and is the process of organizing. It includes online materials, case studies, and links to additional readings and resources, making it essential reading for advanced undergraduate students and those on broader HRM and organizational studies programmes.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 400 pages
Publication date: 01 January 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Power is a fundamental aspect of organizational dynamics that plays a crucial role in shaping the behavior and outcomes of individuals and groups within an organization. Understanding the nature and dynamics of power is essential for future managers to effectively navigate the complex and dynamic landscape of the workplace. This innovative text not only examines how power operates in organizations but also shows how power fundamentally is the process of organizing.

The book is supported by online materials, including case studies for each chapter and links to additional readings and resources. It will be essential reading for advanced undergraduate students looking at power and organizations on dedicated modules and will be valuable reading for those on broader HRM and organizational studies programmes.

One of the key themes of the book is the importance of power in shaping organizational culture. Power can be used to create a positive and productive work environment, or it can be used to create a toxic and dysfunctional one. The book explores the different types of power, including formal power, informal power, and expert power, and how they are used in organizations.

Formal power is the power that is granted by an organization's hierarchy. It includes the authority to make decisions, set policies, and allocate resources. Formal power is often associated with senior management and is used to ensure that the organization's goals are met. However, formal power can also be abused, leading to negative consequences for individuals and groups.

Informal power is the power that is gained through social relationships and personal connections. It includes the ability to influence others, to build trust, and to create a sense of belonging. Informal power is often more effective than formal power, as it is based on personal relationships and trust. However, informal power can also be abused, leading to negative consequences for individuals and groups.

Expert power is the power that is gained through knowledge and expertise. It includes the ability to make decisions and provide advice that is based on sound evidence and research. Expert power is often highly valued in organizations, as it can help to improve the quality of products and services. However, expert power can also be abused, leading to negative consequences for individuals and groups.

The book also explores the different ways in which power can be used to influence behavior. Power can be used to motivate individuals, to control behavior, and to create a sense of urgency. However, the use of power can also be harmful, leading to negative consequences for individuals and groups.

One of the challenges that managers face when dealing with power is the issue of ethical behavior. Managers must ensure that they are acting in a manner that is ethical and that they are not using their power to exploit or harm others. This can be difficult, as power can be a powerful tool that can be used to achieve personal goals.

The book also provides a range of strategies for managing power. These strategies include developing a clear vision and mission, building strong relationships with employees, and providing training and development opportunities. Managers must also be aware of the potential for power to be abused and must take steps to prevent it from happening.

In conclusion, understanding the nature and dynamics of power is crucial for future managers to effectively navigate the complex and dynamic landscape of the workplace. This innovative text not only examines how power operates in organizations but also shows how power fundamentally is the process of organizing. The book is supported by online materials, including case studies for each chapter and links to additional readings and resources, and will be essential reading for advanced undergraduate students looking at power and organizations on dedicated modules and will be valuable reading for those on broader HRM and organizational studies programmes.

Dimension: 246 x 174 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781138919273