Case Study
The major issue is that too much power is centred in George. He has too much influence over decisions made in the organization. He has formal authority because of his position as Assistant Commissioner. Evidently, he has many individual attributes that make him powerful; in the case it says he has a reputation of being a "charismatic leader." He knows how to use political strategies and tactics as is apparent by the way he states his opinions. The fact that he has connections with the Federal Government and the media is very significant because these are the very two organizations that are pressuring this small government agency to re-adjust. This need top re-adjust is causing a lot of stress (absenteeism, costly mistakes, missed deadlines) among the employees. The minor problems that arise from this situation are that weaker members are not as influential, even when they may have the better solution and that most will be pressured to agree with the majority because of the influence that George has. He even has considerable influence over his superior, the Commissioner, John, and this may be why the managers feel pressured--it is hard to go up against both of the top authority figures. E
Even though George does make John seem weak and does not give the other's as much respect for their opinions as he should, he is a valuable asset to the organization because of his very sources of power. His connections to the media and the Federal Government could come in very handy to the organization. Also he is a charismatic leader and this is a positive thing if he does not abuse his power, this could be used to increase employees' morale and enthusiasm for their job. Maybe all he needs is a workshop in power management as stated in alternative (3). . Even in the hallways everyday the managers could put an effort forth to harbour more open communication with their staff, exchange ideas, and let them know about important changes in the workplace. George will need to enrol in a power management course that should be included as a part of the hiring package so he doesn't feel singled out or offended. Along with more open communication, all important decisions made should be sent out to the people they effect as a letter or email, after being discussed in a meeting with an option for feedback. If need be, a future meeting can take place to reassess the decision. (1) One alternative would be to change the way the organization makes decision. Instead of a voting process maybe John should try to take an opposite or differing position from George so that a debate process can occur and allow more opinions and information to exchange. And, if they voting seems the best way to go
Some common words found in the essay are:
Commissioner John, Democratic Decision, Federal Government, Teflon George, Commissioner Evidently, George John, Issues Minor, power management, charismatic leader, commissioner john, instead public, george's plan, information exchange, political strategies, federal government, senior managers,
Approximate Word count = 1004
Approximate Pages = 4 (250 words per page double spaced)
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