Office politics occurs frequently in organizational settings – office politics involves intentional acts to further the self
interest of individuals or groups. Increased power, and advancement of career are the most likely causes of this form of
behavior, though loss of personal credibility could also be a motive. Office politics is thought to occur more frequently at higher levels of the
organization.
Office politics involves either protecting or promoting self interest.
1. Blaming or attacking others– this type of behavior is impersonal, and centers around finding a “scapegoat” when a situation goes bad. Often, when something goes wrong, the first thing to be fixed is the blame.
2. Misuse of information – information is used as a political tool when it is witheld or distorted. Information is commonly witheld, or selectively disclosed, when it might prove detrimental to the individual concerned. Innuendo, or motivated speculation about individuals and events, is another way information is misused.
3. Creating a favorable image – image building includes drawing attention to successes, even those the individual is not responsible for.
4. Developing a support base – higher level managers are more liable touse this tactic to strengthen their position. Other managers developed powerful allies, or formed coalitions with influential persons.
5. Ingratiation – flattery, or buttering up the boss, was also used as a tactic. Lower level managers often performed services or favors to create obligations, invoking the practice of reciprocity when assistance was required.
Office politics also involved the quest for legitimacy. Those practicing office politics did not want to be portrayed as self-seeking and self-serving individuals. They sought to create the impression that they were acting out of higher motives. Higher level managers may even feel that what is good for them is also good for the organization!
Office politics often threatened the accomplishment of tasks. Irrespective of whether it has helpful or harmful effects on the individual and the organization, office politics is an important form of behavior in large organizations.