Influence of Organizational Politics, Culture and Power on Team and Individual Behavior

This report discusses the influence of organizational politics, culture, and power on the behavior of teams and individuals. It examines different types of cultures, powers, and politics and their impact on employee behavior. It also critically evaluates motivational theories and their effect on individual and team behavior. Recommendations are provided for creating a successful organizational environment.

Organisational
behaviour

Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION...........................................................................................................................3
TASK 1............................................................................................................................................3
P1 Influence of organizational politics, culture and power on the behaviour of team and
individual................................................................................................................................3
M1 Critically examine how these elements influence team and individual behaviour..........6
TASK 2............................................................................................................................................6
P2 Process and content theories of Motivation......................................................................6
M2 Critically evaluate how behaviour of individuals and teams are being affected by
motivational theories..............................................................................................................8
D1 Critique of overall relationship between power, politics, culture & motivation which will
enable a organisational success in justification of recommendations....................................9
TASK 3............................................................................................................................................9
P3 Effective and Ineffective teams.........................................................................................9
M3 Analysis of relevant groups and teams in development of theories which will help in
dynamic cooperation............................................................................................................10
TASK 4..........................................................................................................................................12
P4 Application of various concept of Organisational behaviour..........................................12
M4 Concepts of organisational behaviour which will help in affirmative way..................14
D2 Critique of team development theories in OB which will impact organisational behaviour
..............................................................................................................................................14
CONCLUSION..............................................................................................................................14
REFERENCES..............................................................................................................................16

INTRODUCTION
Organisational behaviour refers to the study of behaviour of individual person
within organisational settings, it is an interface among human attitude and the
organisation as well as the organisation itself. In simple words, it defines as an interface
or interaction among large number of people and organisation working within the
workplace. It is the study which mainly focuses on creating positive working
environment with the help of which personal as well as professional development of
individual will be done. In this report, Apple is chosen as the base organisation which is
an international technology company (Testa, and Lee, 2018). Headquarters of the
company is located at California which was founded in 1977 by Steve Jobs. Company
mainly deals in hardware products such as IPOD, media player, home pad, mobile
phones and many more. This is the report which includes various sections that how
culture, power and politics influence the behaviour of both individual as well as team.
Apart from this, how different theories of motivation helps in attaining organisational
goals and objectives of the company. Furthermore, it includes detail discussion about
different effective and ineffective team.
TASK 1
P1 Influence of organizational politics, culture and power on the behaviour of team and
individual.
It is said that organisational behaviour is the study of both individual and group
performance which assist business organisation in order to enhance their efficiency.
Some key elements which are culture, politics and power. All these factors plays very
essential role which highly influence the overall behaviour and attitude of both individual
as well as group. All these are going to be discussed as follows:
Culture
Culture refers to the value as well as ideology which arise within the workplace
develops both affirmative and negative results. The main role of employees in the
organisation is to maintain healthy and strong relationship between the staff members.
that is held by the organisations. With the help of Handy's Typology, it has been

analysed that there are four types of culture which are going to be discussed in detail
manner as follows:
Role culture: It is the type of culture, where duties are being assigned by the
head of the department or by the managers as per the skills, knowledge and
qualification of individuals. In the present context of Apple, managers of the company
implement this type of culture so that staff members will be able to perform their task in
an effective manner. Along with this, it increase the involvement of individual as they get
the work according to their interest area (Bester, Stander and Van Zyl, 2015).
Task culture: According to this culture, work and task is being allotted to the
staff members with the main purpose of accomplishing goals and objectives in an
effective time frame. In reference to Apple, it is the culture which is adopted by the top
management authorities so that they can enhance and maintain the overall behaviour
and attitude of both team and individual. This is the type of culture which influences
employees in order to perform their work accordingly so that they will be able to attain
their goals and objectives in an effective and appropriate manner.
Person culture: Person culture generally focuses on the behaviour and attitude
of individual working within the organisation. In relation to Apple, if the management
team of the company adopt this types of culture, it will directly affect and influence the
behaviour of people. Reason behind this is that they gain various opportunities which
helps them in order to enhance their growth as well as development.
Power culture: It the type of culture where power of taking any kind of decisions
are mainly in the hand of some employees working within the workplace. In the present
context of Apple, managers adopt this method which sometimes creates conflicts and
disputes among the staff members. Therefore it is considered as a negative kind of
culture which affects the whole working functions in an adverse manner.
With the help of above mentioned report, it has been concluded that role culture
is one of the most effective and appropriate method. With the assistance of this culture,
each and every individual will be able to perform their task effectively as they have their
keen interest in the assigned task.
Power

It defines as the capability of an individual person in order to control all the
activities and task in an effective manner(Bharathy, , 2018). Power is generally in the
hand of high level authorities which creates positive atmosphere within the workplace.
As per the thought of French and Raven, there are mainly five types of power which are
going to be discussed as follows:
Reward power: It refers to the type of power where managers and top
management team of the company have power in order to provide rewards and
appreciation as per their performance. In the present context of Apple, if top
management team or higher authorities provide appreciation and recognition to their
capable and potential staff members it will positively influence the behaviour of
individuals working within the organisation.
Coercive power: In this type of culture, mangers of the company mainly force
their staff members in order to follow their instructions in an appropriate manner. If such
type of power adopted by the higher authorities of Apple within their workplace it will
affect the mindset of individuals working within the organisation and de-motives them
which reduces their overall performance (Burrell. and Morgan, , 2017).
Legitimate power: According to this type of power main authority of taking
decisions are in the hand of CEO, owners and managers. In the present context of
Apple, if this type of power is used by the management team creates negative impact
on the staff members. This might affect the creativity, performance as well as motivation
of employees working in the company.
Referent power: This type of power mainly takes place within the organisation in
order to motivate, inspire and influence the performance of employees. This as a result
leads to increase the growth and development of the staff members of Apple which
increase their overall profitability of the company.
Expert power: The is the power where individual person have enough
knowledge and re expert in their field. This type of power boost the morale as well as
performance of staff members of Apple as they perform their work under the person
who is expert in the field.
With the assistance of above mentioned, it has been said that best and most
suitable type of power is referent power which highly influences the performance of

employees and the reason behind this is that they get benefits in term of both monetary
and non monetary incentives.
Politics
It refers to the procedure where communication between different indivduals take
place within the organisation. It has also been analysed that politics are of both types
affirmative and negative. In the present context of Apple, positive politics might
influence the performance of staff members which leads to increase their development
but on the other hand, negative politics might affect the performance of staff members in
a negative manner as they do not have trust on their colleagues. This as a result affect
the whole performance of individual and they will not be able to accomplish business
objectives within stipulated time frame (Christina and et. al., 2014).
With the assistance of above discussion, it has been concluded that positive
politics is effective for the staff members of Apple as they help them in creative healthy
relationship with each other.
M1 Critically examine how these elements influence team and individual behaviour.
It has been analysed that with the assistance of positive type of cultures which
are role and task, employees of the company will be able to perform their functions in an
effective manner. But if executing negative types of cultures such as power & person, it
affects the overall behaviour of staff members as both individually and collectively.
Similarly in case of politics, positive type of politics helps in maintaining strong and
healthy relationship within the workplace but on the other hand negative politics reduce
the efficiency and effectiveness of employees working within the organisation.
Additionally three types of powers such as reward, referent & expert assist workers in
order to empower themselves whereas coercive along with legitimate power increase
the non usage of innovation and creativity available among individuals as well as team.
TASK 2
P2 Process and content theories of Motivation
The term motivation is defined as the process that are useful for business in
order to encourage and inspire the staff members in order to improve productivity and
performance level of employees. Apart from this motivation is the most vital factor for

employees as they can easily achieve organisational goals in the allotted time duration.
It results in changing behaviour of attendants in relation to the desired business.
Motivational Theories: These type of theories helps business in order to
investigate need of employees in order to fulfil them thus motivating them in order to
achieve business goals and strategies. In this factor the HR section of Apple applies two
kinds of motivational theories to influence employees at work place and these are
evaluated below as:
Content Theory
The theory examines the reason behind change in requirements and necessity of
employees according to the time duration. With this factor ERG theory is applicable in
relation with Apple (Peralta, and et. al., 2018).
ERG motivation theory
ERG theory was proposed by the writer Clayton P. Alderfer who is known for
converting the Needs of Maslow’s theory into three different needs which are growth,
relatedness and Existence. These needs are further examined in detail with relation to
apple and these are discussed below as:
Existence Needs: This factor consists of physiological needs of individuals
which are food, clothing and shelter. Along with this it also comprises of safety and
security needs that makes an employee feeling of security at work place. The
management team of Apple can easily fulfil need and demand of employees working at
Apple by offering them bonus, family trip, incentives and monthly pay by analysing
needs of employees. If all the above needs are fulfilled, then employees carry out their
working with full excitement in order to achieve set goals thus enhancing business
growth.
Relatedness Needs: This need is linked with analysing self-esteem and social
need which is external by nature. For every individual it is important to maintain good
relationship with colleagues, friends and family members in order to have good
interaction thus having a good social status. In relation with Apple the higher authorities
can fulfil needs of employees by having an arrangement of informal party in order to
maintain friendly relations with employees. This results in making all the members
secure at the business organisations.

Growth Needs: These needs are mainly focused towards self actualization of
human beings. In relation with Apple Manager is focused towards organizing training
and development activities that are useful for employees in order to grow according to
the desired time frame. It results in making employees productive and creative at the
time of executing the task.
Process Theory
The process theory of motivation is defined as the planning of influencing a
person in order to adopt changes in themselves. In this relation Adam's Equity
philosophy which is evaluated as one of the best process theory of motivation is
evaluated below as:
Adam’s Equity Theory
This theory is executed by John Stacy Adams and this is based on two different
factor. The first factor is related with maintaining a balance between all the input and
output factors is maintained in order to analyse that employees put their equal efforts in
order to achieve the best output. The second factor is to analyse that employees at
work place should not feel partial, they should be fairly treated with the higher level
authorities.
In relation with apple mangers should design benefit scheme for their staff
members such as paid leaves, family trips, medical facilities to all the potential
employees who are working hard in order to achieve set business objectives. This factor
will motivate all the workers in order to enhance productivity of firms thus attainment of
higher market shares and achievement of growth (Odor , 201).
M2 Critically evaluate how behaviour of individuals and teams are being affected by
motivational theories
With the assistance of various motivational theories such as ERG Motivation as
well as Adam's Equity, Apple mainly focuses on influencing the attitude, behaviour and
characteristics of people working within the workplace in a positive manner. It has been
analysed that, Adams equity theory assist in encourage equality among the staff
members but on the other hand it do have some disadvantages. For instance,
employees who are working in the same department must have equal wage rate bit the
payment structure generally based on the capabilities and skills of individuals.

Attainment of ERG needs and wants might leads towards the increment of motivation
level of workers. But on the other hand it also reduces the level of encouragement and
motivation among the staff members as there needs are already meet which as a result
no longer motivate them.
D1 Critique of overall relationship between power, politics, culture & motivation which
will enable a organisational success in justification of recommendations
With the execution of positive culture which are task & role, power which includes
reward, referent as well as expert along with this politics helps in developing the working
situation in both positive and negative manner(Natvig and Stark, 2016). It has also been
recommended to the management team of Apple, so that they can ensure that all these
factors need to be implemented in a positive manner which increases the level of
motivation among staff members.
TASK 3
P3 Effective and Ineffective teams
Team refers to the group or accumulation of different individuals with the aim of
attaining organisational goals and objectives in an effective manner. In an organisation
there are mainly 2 types of effective as well as ineffective teams. In context of effective
team, each and every individual have enough knowledge about the objectives and goals
of the company for which they are working. On the other hand, ineffective teams do not
have proper guidance about the work (Maio, and et. al., 2019). Managers of Apple,
ensure that there must be development of effective manner so that goals and objectives
will be fulfilled. Some of the key difference are going to be discussed as follows:
Basis Effective team Ineffective team
Decision
making
In this context, each and every
team member must have equal
right to share their views and
opinion so effective decision will be
taken within given time frame. This
as a result help the employees in
On the other hand, in case of
ineffective team, every team
member do not indulge in the
process of decision making which
affects the overall profitability of

their overall growth as well as
development.
the company.
Underlying
goals
In this context, goals and
objectives of the company are
defines in an effective manner so
that they will attain it within given
time frame.
In case of ineffective teams goals
and objectives are not defined
which affects the whole
performance as well as
profitability of the company in a
negative manner.
Types of teams
According to task & organisational needs the teams are of different types which
are as follows:
Project team: The primary aim of this group is to complete the task on specified
time period. With reference to Apple, it has many projects at a time and for this project
team helps company to implement their activities and complete them on time (Jansen and
Samuel, 2014).
Functional team: It includes individuals who belongs to business functions. In
context to Apple, if this team is adopted in the company, there is proper utilization of
skills, knowledge of employees which enhanced the level of productivity. In addition to
this, this teams engage workforce for long term and builds reputation of the company.
Virtual team: To communicate to the employees who are on different location
through the use of technologies develops the efficiency of company and improve its
services. With reference to Apple, adoption of this teams helps company in growing in
present or for long term in the market.
M3 Analysis of relevant groups and teams in development of theories which will help in
dynamic cooperation
Tuckman Team Development Theory is adopted by Apple for the growth as
well as development of coordination and cooperation among individuals. For example,
Apple plans to bring new product for its customers in market and for this they develop

teams who execute the projects. This theory consist of four development stages which
is described below in consideration of Apple:
Forming: This is the first stage of product development. At this point, managers
select employees and form a team who perform their activities effectively. The team
members introduced and interact with each other. With reference to Apple, the team
leader communicate with its team members and make them aware about organisational
goals so that it can achieve with in specified time period.
Storming: The group members starts interaction and listen the ideas & views of
each other. At this point, sometimes conflicts arises and the relation among group
members will be broken. For this, an organisation have facilitative leadership so that no
conflicts can arise. In context to Apple, the manager allot task and duties to each
individuals of team members in order to maintain coordination and trust among the team
members ( Vasconcelos, Gouveia and Kimble, 2016).
Norming: At this phase, the team members starts trusting to each other and a
sense of understanding is created among them. They avoid all the conflicts and starts
working for the goal of the company. With reference to Apple, the team leader tries to
make a comfortable and working environment for employees of the company so that
team members work with enthusiasm and increase the productivity. This will assist
company to bring & develop new product effectively in the market.
Performing: At this stage, the overall focus of team members is on the goal of the
company. The group members stands independently as they did not need participation
of team leaders. The members mindset is clear about hat and why they are doing.
Strong relationships is build among the team members and they can handle issues
positively. In context to Apple, the group members work towards fulfilling the goals that
is associated with the new product (Dawson, 2018).
Adjourning: This stage takes place after the ending of project and activities related
to the new product. The team is disbursed and move forward to new things.
Appreciation and recognition is given to the employees for their work so that they can
motivate and work together in the future. I context to Apple, the group members move to
their daily routines and the group break up after the purpose is fulfilled.

TASK 4
P4 Application of various concept of Organisational behaviour
Organisational behaviour consist of ideologies, beliefs, norms, customs, values
and so on. The leaders and manager is responsible as well as answerable for aligning
activities of employees in relation to the goal of the organisation. The theory of
organisational behaviour that is commonly used by all the companies is path goal
theory. This theory is discussed below:
Path Goal Theory
This theory is formulated by Robert House in year 1971. The theory is basically
focuses on behaviour and style that suits on employee as well as work environment so
that goals of an organisation can achieve. The main motive of this theory is to
encourage employees, satisfying them so that productive results can come out and the
objectives is effectively achieved (Cooke, 2018).
Classification of Path Goal Theory
Path goal theory includes three elements that is Employee characteristics, leadership
behaviour and task characteristics. This elements is started below with reference to
Apple:
Employee Characteristics: The leaders identify and understand the needs of
subordinates so that they can motivate & encouraged them towards work. The leader
focuses on characteristics of workers in order to make strategies that leads to
employees productivity (Coccia and Cadario, 2014). Sometimes employees made a
negative mindset because of non fulfilment of their needs. With reference to Apple, the
managers of the company make strategies by considering in mind about their
employees behavioural characteristics. This assist leaders to encourage subordinates
so that they can work with full zeal and increase productivity which in turns increase the
profitability of Apple.
Environmental & Task Characteristics: At this point, the leaders ensures that
environment of the company is comfortable and secure for employees so that it is easy
for them to perform the activities of the project. In addition to this, the leaders focuses
that the task given to employees is of their interest and skills so that it is convenient and
easy for them to perform. This will help companies to increase their productivity as well

as sales also. In context to Apple, the negative atmosphere creates conflicts among the
employees which directly impacts the productivity of the company. This will lead to the
negative results and decline in the level of profit.
From the above two elements of Path goal theory, it is identified that working
environment & ineffective communication among the members effect the present
performance of Apple. Therefore, Apple needs to improve its strategies in order to
improve their level of performance and increase efficiency of its employees.
Leadership Behaviour: The leaders here make adjustments and changes in
the behaviour style according to the requirements of employees so that they can be
motivated and inspired. It consist of four styles that is supportive, achievement,
participative and directive. This behaviour or styles help managers to flow the activities
and operations smoothly so that the motivational level and morale of employees
increases (Christina and et. al., 2014).
According to the present situations and conditions of Apple that is negative
environment and ineffective communication, Participative style of leadership behaviour
is best suited to solve the issues and conflicts. Participative style allows employees to
participate in the decision making. The managers gives subordinates a chance to share
their views and ideas in order to get effective outcomes. This style give a sense of
empowerment to employees which further increases productivity level of employees.
This assist organisation to attain targets as well as objectives with in a time frame.
Participative style has one disadvantage, it is a time intense process as listening the
perception of employees and understand them take the time of leader(Burrell. and
Morgan, , 2017).
Participative style of leadership behaviour has positive as well as negative
effects. It enlarge the motivational level of subordinates and increase their efficiency
and productivity. In contrast to this, the different perspectives of employees degrade
creates issues and demotivate the workforce. Apple needs to focus on both the issues
while considering participative style of leadership.
The organisation behaviour includes contingency philosophy and autocratic
philosophy. The former focuses in the workforce who make planning for future while
the latter entitles in making effective plans and strategies which is according the needs

of individuals. With reference to Apple, the leader of company should use contingency
philosophy in order to make communication and interaction effective among the
employees.
M4 Concepts of organisational behaviour which will help in affirmative way
Organisational behaviour concepts consist of pat goal theory that includes
employee, task, environmental characteristics and leadership behaviour. From the
above analysis of two factors, the leadership style is chosen as per the current
conditions of Apple. If the leadership style that is used by Apple is ineffective, it will
impact adversely to the employees which leads to the creation of more problems and
issues (Bharathy, , 2018).
D2 Critique of team development theories in OB which will impact organisational
behaviour
Tuckman theory includes five stages of development, the work is assigned to
group members according to their knowledge, qualification, skills and interest. This
theory gives a possibility to managers to adopt leadership style tat is effective and
appropriate for organisation. For instance, Tuckman team development theory assist
organisation to build positive environment that is good for employees. This theory
ensures the benefit of all the members of organisation whether it is stakeholders,
subordinates, managers and so on (Bester, Stander and Van Zyl, 2015).
CONCLUSION
With the assistance of above mentioned report, it has been said that there are
ample number of aspects which have both positive and negative impact on the
behaviour of individual as well as on teams. Some of these aspects includes power,
politics and culture which might create negative and affirmative impact on the overall
performance of individuals. In this report, various theories have been discussed which
assist in enhancing the overall behaviour of employees working within the organisation.
In addition to this, it includes theory such as Tuckman Team Development which helps
in creating positive working atmosphere within the organisation so that outcomes will be
produced in an effective manner. At last, Participative style of leadership has been
choose by the leaders which helps in increasing the overall efficiency of the employees.

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