Amor, Roma Jane BSA-1E/TTH 1:00 pm-2:30 pm

1. How does Workplace politics occur in an organization?

Workplace politics exist almost in any organization. It is simply inevitable and is

always part of every office and organization. Whenever there is an
organizational chart or hierarchy, it will always be there. May it be in
government agencies, corporations, non profit organizations and even in
virtually offices. Workplace politics is definitely a part of activities performed by
individuals or members of the organization for status advancement and
personal agenda- sometimes even at the expense of others. The said event
might be informal and unofficial but it is necessary for each working individual
to develop office politics skills to help in career advancement and avoid anyone
from taking advantage of you within the organization.

2. 2. Do you think politics in an organization is positive or negative? Why?

It actually depends on how you handle it to your own advantage. Most of the
time, we have a negative connotation when we hear the word politics within the
workplace. But believe it or not, if used correctly, an individual with high political
skills can surely enjoy the benefits of it. On the positive side, it can become a tool
to develop networking within the organization and strong connection and
business relationships.

3. Give an example of a negative outcome due to politics. Explain your answer.

If not handled properly, work politics affect the company’s performance in a

negative way. In fact, it will demotivate employees, increase the levels of stress
and even change the attitude of employees towards work and encourage
backbiting, which will definitely result in a decrease of productivity. More so, the
focus of employees will be affected, and there is a high chance for an
enhancement of poor performance. Office politics has also rewarded wrong
employees time and time and again at the expense of serious, hard working
ones. For instance, an employee could receive recognition because of indulging
in workplace politics, which to some extent is unfair to other employees.
Researches have also shown that workplace politics can increase stress-level
among employees of the company and prevent sharing of ideas and normal
communication, which might result in dissemination of wrong information. Most
importantly, it will certainly affect efficiency and effectiveness, and hinder
productivity.

4. Give an example of a positive outcome due to politics. Explain your answer.

An individual must accept the reality that office politics will always be a part of
any organization, and must focus on learning the techniques and strategies to
develop high office political skills to be able to have positive outcomes. When we
have a strong idea and knowledge about the structure of an organization, both
informal and formal, we can certainly build smooth links and relationships within
the workplace. The distribution of tasks will become more efficient. It will also
create morality among the employees and increase confidence level with the
increased delegation of the concerned authority, which will also keep them
motivated to work. Lastly, office politics if handled properly will produce efficient
and effective outputs and increase quality.

5. What are the things you need to do for you to win over workplace politics?

- Study and determine the workplace dynamic, familiarize yourself with the
informal and formal connections and organizational structures
- Make more positive and genuine professional connections with your
colleagues to feel more invested, which will result in better coordination,
smooth communication and teamwork.
- You must remain neutral when certain conflicts or issues arise. Instead of
participating in controversial engagements, follow your own core values
and remember to keep your integrity in check.
- Promote positive change and showcase your leadership skills. A good
leader sets a good example and standard for everyone else. Demonstrate
that workplace politics can be used for greater good by exhibiting positive
behavior.

6. What political behaviors have you observed within school groups or your
workplace? Were they successful? Why or why not?

Mostly when many individuals have different views and opinions about a certain
topic or project, they tend to create walls within themselves, avoiding proper
communication. But if good collaboration is being exercised, and building
strong relationships with each other is being prioritized, it most likely create a
more positive environment and outcome.