Question

Power tactics are one way in which managerial employees influence others. Identify and describe seven tactical strategies a manager could use and the conditions under which one tactic is selected over another

Answer 1

Power is defined as a capacity that 'A' has to influence the behavior of 'B' so that 'B' acts in accordance with A's wishes. Power tactics are the ways in which individuals translate power into specific actions. The main power tactics are described below:

1. Reason: It is the use of facts, data, making persuasive presentation to support one's stand.
2. Friendliness: Use of flattery, creation of goodwill, being friendly, showing a need, asking politely and acting humble for getting things done.
3. Coalition: Getting support of others peers, subordinates in the organization to backup their view point.
4. Bargaining: Offering an exchange of benefits or favours.
5. Assertiveness: Use of direct and forceful approach such as demanding compliance with requests, repeating reminders, pointing out rules, ordering what's to be done, becoming a nuisance.
6. Higher authorities: Getting the support of higher ups in the organization to back up the request.
7. Sanctions: Use of organizationally derived rewards or punishment such as promising or preventing salary increase, promotion or withholding promotion, writing unsatisfactory appraisal report.