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SOURCE: Organizational Behavior (2015), by Robbins & Judge, Prentice Hall As Bar

ID: 340117 • Letter: S

Question

SOURCE: Organizational Behavior (2015), by Robbins & Judge, Prentice Hall As Barry looked out the window of his office in Toronto, the gloomy October skies obscured his usual view of CN Tower. "That figures," Barry thought to himself - his mood was just as gloomy Five months ago, last May, Barry's company, CTM, a relatively small but growing technology company, reorganized itself. Although such reorganizations often imperil careers, Barry felt the change only improved his position. Barry's co-worker, Raphael, was promoted to a different department, which made sense since because Raphael had been with the successful project. Because Raphael was promoted and their past work roles were so similar, Barry thought his own promotion was soon to come. company for a few more years, and had worked with the CEO on a However, six 6 weeks ago, Barry's boss left. Raphael was transferred back to the same department, and became Barry's boss. Although Barry felt a bit overlooked, he knew he was still relatively junior in the company, and felt that his good past relationship with Raphael would bode well for his future prospects. The past six 6 weeks, however, had brought nothing but disappointment. Although Raphael often told Barry he was doing a great job, drawing from several observations, Barry felt that opinion was not being shared with the higher-ups. Worse, a couple of Barry's friends in the company showed Bary several e-mails where Raphael had taken credit for Barry's work. Raphael is not the person I thought he was," thought Bary. one saw the outcomes of his hard work? How What was his future in the company if no would it affect his career to work for someone who apparently was willing to do anything to get ahead, even at others expense? He thought about looking for work, but that prospect only darkened his mood further. He liked the company. He felt he did good work there As Barry looked again out his window, a light rain began to fall The CN Tower was no more visible than before. He just didn't know what to do. Questions Should Barry complain about his treatment? To whom? If he did complain, what power tactics should Barry use? 1. 2. Studies have shown that those prone to complaining or "whining" tend to have less power in an organization. Do you think it is true or not? How can Barry avoid appearing to be a whiner? Do you think Barry should look for another job? Why or why not? 3.

Explanation / Answer

1. Yes, Barry should complain about the treatment he has been receiving from Raphael to the higher authorities in the organization. It would help Barry's case if he can provide suitable proofs which support his claim. He can involve his peers also to support his cause. He can use the tactics of reason and provide the logical facts and proofs which support his cause and the tactic of friendliness with the peers and higher management.

2. Yes, people who have the perceived image of whiners may observe that they have considerably lesser power in the organization. To avoid being seen as a whiner, Barry should ensure that his complaint is backed by sufficient proofs. He should ensure that the management is made aware of his capabilities to excel and add value to the organization.

3. No, Barry should not look for other job. He should try to improve his present situation and not give up on the hard work he has done in the present organization. Using power tactics of reasoning and assertiveness , he should work towards his cause and gain the respect he deserves in the organization.