Effect of Organizational Politics on Organizational Goals and Objectives

Abstract

Organizational politics is something most people recognize when they see it in action, but find it difficult to define. Organizational politics has been viewed as either good or bad. However,   organizational politics is not necessarily a bad thing and it is certainly not avoidable. This study sought to emphasize that politics is an important element of an organization that should constantly receive attention because of its impact on organization goals and objectives. The study used survey research design to generate data from a sample size of 152 employees using simple random sampling technique. In order to test the hypotheses formulated, the researcher used correlation analysis to determine the direction and strength of the relationship that exists between the variables. Results from the analysis of data showed that organizational politics is negatively related to achievement of organizational goals (-0.224) and also negatively related to achievement of harmony among the functional departments of an organization (-0.469). The study therefore concluded that Organizational performance can be enhanced by trying to providing a working environment free of politics in their organizations. The study also recommends that the chief executive of the organization should ensure that the management of functional areas should be devoid of politics and that management must use skills and competencies as a yardstick for decision making.