Role of organisational politics in the career progression of functional and executive level managers

Abstract

This research explores the factors of organisational politics that affect the career progression of senior executives in organisations through a qualitative exploration among 15 executives having working experience in emerging markets like South Africa, India and others to shed more in depth light on the value of organisational politics. The findings revealed that the need and value of politics is determined by perception of politics, enablers of politics and the developments that take place in the workplace. Perception of Politics may be positive or negative or both. Findings suggests that human nature, ambitions, insecurity, diversity, company culture, mindset, need for recognition, and hidden agendas may be the enablers or drivers of politics in organisations. New technology and procedural developments may have an effect on the value of politics. Moreover, findings showed that political skills and ability to respond to political situations may determine career progression of individuals. Ethics plays a key role in developing positive politics in a system. Recommendations are made for organisations to understand the dynamics of politics and develop skills to manage politics for career progression and organisational goal attainment, and for individuals to develop suitable political skills and value the role of mentorship in coping with and managing politics.