Legitimate and Illegitimate Political Behaviour

Legitimate and Illegitimate Political Behaviour

Political behavior in organizations refers to actions taken by individuals or groups to influence others and achieve personal or professional goals.

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This behavior can be classified into legitimate and illegitimate political behavior, each with distinct characteristics and implications.

Legitimate Political Behavior

Definition:

• Legitimate political behavior refers to actions that are within the boundaries of organizational norms and policies. These behaviors are accepted and often encouraged as part of the formal structure of the organization.

Key Characteristics:

• Conforms to Organizational Norms: Actions are aligned with the organization’s formal rules, policies, and procedures.
• Ethical and Acceptable: Behavior is considered ethical and appropriate within the context of organizational culture.
• Used for Advancement: Individuals use political skills and strategies to advance their careers or achieve goals in ways that are considered acceptable by the organization.

Examples:

1. Networking: Building relationships with colleagues, superiors, and stakeholders to gain support and influence decisions.
2. Negotiation: Engaging in discussions to reach agreements that benefit both parties and align with organizational goals.
3. Seeking Mentorship: Finding mentors within the organization to gain guidance, advice, and career advancement opportunities.
4. Participating in Committees: Being involved in committees or task forces to contribute to organizational projects and increase visibility.

Advantages:

• Facilitates Career Advancement: Helps individuals build relationships and gain support for promotions or new opportunities.
• Enhances Organizational Effectiveness: Effective networking and negotiation can lead to better collaboration and problem-solving.
• Promotes Positive Interactions: Encourages constructive interactions and supports organizational goals.

Disadvantages:

• Potential for Perception Issues: Even legitimate behavior can be perceived negatively if it appears self-serving or manipulative.
• Time-Consuming: Networking and relationship-building can require significant time and effort.

Illegitimate Political Behavior

Definition:

• Illegitimate political behavior refers to actions that violate organizational norms, ethics, or policies. These behaviors are typically aimed at self-serving goals and can have negative consequences for individuals or the organization.

Key Characteristics:

• Violates Norms: Actions are outside the boundaries of acceptable behavior and often involve manipulation or deceit.
• Unethical or Harmful: Behavior can be unethical, unfair, or harmful to others within the organization.
• Self-Serving: Individuals engage in these behaviors to advance their own interests at the expense of others or the organization.

Examples:

1. Manipulating Information: Withholding or distorting information to gain an advantage or undermine others.
2. Engaging in Favoritism: Showing preferential treatment to certain individuals or groups to gain their support or loyalty.
3. Spreading Rumors: Disseminating false or misleading information to damage someone’s reputation or create division.
4. Sabotaging Others: Deliberately undermining the work or efforts of colleagues to hinder their success or advancement.

Advantages:

• Short-Term Gains: Individuals may achieve short-term objectives or personal advantages through illegitimate behavior.
• Strategic Advantage: Can provide a competitive edge in the short term if not detected.

Disadvantages:

• Damage to Trust and Morale: Can lead to a breakdown in trust, lower morale, and a toxic work environment.
• Risk of Repercussions: Individuals engaging in illegitimate behavior may face disciplinary actions, damage to their reputation, or legal consequences.
• Undermines Organizational Culture: Erodes organizational values and norms, leading to a decrease in overall effectiveness and collaboration.

Comparison of Legitimate and Illegitimate Political Behavior

1. Compliance with Norms:

• Legitimate: Conforms to organizational norms and ethics.
• Illegitimate: Violates norms and ethical standards.

1. Impact on the Organization:

• Legitimate: Generally beneficial for career advancement and organizational effectiveness.
• Illegitimate: Harmful to individuals, team dynamics, and overall organizational culture.

1. Perception:

• Legitimate: Viewed as acceptable and appropriate by the organization.
• Illegitimate: Seen as manipulative, unethical, and potentially damaging.

1. Outcome:

• Legitimate: Leads to positive outcomes such as career growth and improved organizational performance.
• Illegitimate: Results in negative outcomes such as decreased trust, morale, and potential disciplinary action.

Conclusion

Understanding the distinction between legitimate and illegitimate political behavior is crucial for maintaining a healthy organizational environment. Legitimate political behavior involves navigating organizational dynamics in ways that align with norms and ethics, fostering positive relationships and career growth. In contrast, illegitimate political behavior involves actions that undermine trust, ethics, and organizational culture, potentially leading to serious negative consequences for both individuals and the organization.

Organizations should aim to encourage legitimate political behavior while addressing and mitigating illegitimate practices to ensure a fair, productive, and ethical work environment.