Organisational Politics and Power Dynamics

About the Course

Navigating the complex terrain of organisational politics and power dynamics is essential for personal and organisational success. Organisational politics refers to the informal strategies and maneuvers individuals and groups use to gain power and influence within a workplace setting. Understanding these dynamics is crucial as they often shape decision-making processes, resource allocation, and career advancement opportunities. Moreover, organisational politics can significantly impact team dynamics, organisational culture, and overall morale, making it imperative for leaders and employees to possess the skills to navigate and leverage these dynamics effectively.

This 5-day Organisational Politics and Power Dynamics training course is designed to provide delegates with a deep understanding of the various facets of organisational politics and power dynamics. Delegates will explore the different types of power that exist within organisations, ranging from formal authority derived from positions to informal influence gained through networks and relationships. Strategies for identifying key power players, building influence networks, and navigating complex organisational structures will be examined in depth. Additionally, it will explore the ethical considerations associated with using power and the importance of maintaining integrity while engaging in organisational politics.

Through a combination of theoretical insights and practical strategies, delegates will develop the skills necessary to manage conflicts arising from power struggles, negotiate effectively in various organisational contexts, and lead teams through political challenges. Furthermore, it will equip delegates with the tools to recognise and address resistance to change, fostering environments conducive to organisational growth and innovation. By enhancing their political acumen and leadership capabilities, they will be better prepared to promote positive organisational climates and achieve strategic objectives amidst diverse and sometimes competing interests within their organisations

Core Objectives

By the end of the training course, delegates will be able to:

• Identify and classify different types of power dynamics within organisational structures
• Utilise strategies to navigate and influence informal networks and political landscapes effectively
• Evaluate the impact of organisational culture on power dynamics and political behaviors
• Assess ethical dilemmas and make informed decisions regarding the ethical use of power within organisational contexts
• Develop strategies for managing conflicts arising from power struggles and interpersonal dynamics within teams
• Implement negotiation tactics and influence strategies to achieve organisational objectives and manage stakeholder relationships
• Synthesize leadership approaches that integrate political competence, ethical considerations, and strategic decision-making in organisational leadership roles

Training Approach

This training course blends theoretical frameworks with practical applications, ensuring delegates grasp complex concepts through interactive discussions and case studies. Emphasis is placed on experiential learning, where delegates engage in simulations and role-plays to simulate real-world organisational politics and power dynamics scenarios. It provides personalised feedback and coaching to enhance delegates' understanding and application of learned strategies in their specific organisational contexts.

The Attendees

Delegates of this training course are professionals across various organisational roles and levels, seeking to deepen their understanding and mastery of navigating organisational politics and power dynamics. It brings diverse experiences and responsibilities, eager to acquire practical strategies to enhance leadership effectiveness and promote organisational success amidst complex interpersonal and structural challenges.

Likewise, it will be valuable to the professionals but not limited to the following:

• Middle to Senior-level Managers
• Team Leaders and Supervisors
• Human Resources Professionals
• Organisational Development Specialists
• Project Managers
• Change Management Specialists
• Executives and Aspiring Leaders

Daily Discussion

DAY ONE: UNDERSTANDING ORGANISATIONAL POLITICS

• Types of Organisational Power Dynamics
• Impact of Hierarchy and Structure on Political Behavior
• Informal Networks and Their Influence
• Strategies for Identifying Key Power Players
• Ethical Considerations in Organisational Politics
• Historical Examples of Political Maneuvers in Organisations
• Role of Social Capital in Gaining Influence

DAY TWO: DYNAMICS OF POWER RELATIONS

• Leadership Styles and Their Influence on Team Dynamics
• Conflict Resolution Techniques in Team Settings
• Cultural Norms and Their Impact on Power Dynamics
• Techniques for Managing Power Struggles in Teams
• Effective Strategies for Building Alliances
• The Psychology of Trust in Leadership and Team Dynamics
• Research Findings on Successful Team Leadership and Influence 

DAY THREE: INFLUENCING AND NEGOTIATING

• Building and Leveraging Influence Networks
• Strategies for Enhancing Personal Influence
• Techniques for Effective Negotiation
• Power Dynamics in Negotiation Scenarios
• Stakeholder Analysis and Prioritisation Strategies
• Studies on Influential Negotiation Strategies
• Psychological Insights into Persuasion Techniques in Influencing Stakeholders

DAY FOUR: MANAGING CONFLICT AND RESISTANCE

• Conflict Resolution Strategies and Their Applications
• Mediation Techniques for Resolving Conflicts
• Addressing Cultural and Interpersonal Conflicts
• Strategies for Managing Resistance to Change
• Overcoming Organisational Politics in Conflict Situations
• Research on Successful Conflict Resolution Approaches
• The Role of Leadership in Managing Organisational Conflict 

DAY FIVE: LEADERSHIP AND ORGANISATIONAL POLITICS

• Political Skills and Their Role in Leadership Effectiveness
• Leadership Styles and Their Impact on Organisational Politics
• Strategies for Building Political Competence
• Leading through Organisational Change and Politics
• Career Advancement Strategies in Politically Charged Environments
• Studies on Effective Leadership in Navigating Politics
• Building a Politically Savvy Leadership Approach