Topic outline
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Power is a popular topic because it is so easily misused. We all have some power over others, whether earned through a promotion or as a reflection of knowledge and experience. This unit may change your understanding of power and teach you that there is nothing wrong with using power appropriately. In fact, as an employee, you are expected to use the power you have within an organization as you were likely employed for just that reason. Power comes in many forms, but it is almost always used to influence.
Completing this unit should take you approximately 9 hours.
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Students mustMark as done
This unit will discuss how influence differs from manipulation and explain how individuals use influence within the workforce. This unit will conclude with a look at the politics within organizations and how ethics apply to power. As you are likely aware, there are too many examples in which power is used improperly in business. Responsible business schools today place extra emphasis upon ethics, especially when talking about subjects such as power.
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Students mustMark as doneThe "bad" boss is an enduring character we all know. Why do these characters exist? Watch this video about leadership - the ability of one person to influence others to help achieve group or organizational goals. What does organizational behavior tell us about leadership? What traits come to mind when we think about leaders? What leadership style works best in which situation? Ponder these questions as you watch and take notes. Also, pay attention to the summary of leadership theories.
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Students mustMark as done
This video is a continuation of our discussion on leadership. We will learn more about leadership dynamics, particularly as we address the concepts of collaboration, competition, and change.
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Students mustMark as done
Watch this video. After you watch, reflect on how you can inspire others.
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Read this article, which compares and contrasts two very distinct types of leadership: command-and-control and people-centered. Think about the leadership styles you've experienced in your organization. Which of the two styles is more common in your workplace? Can both styles be effective given the appropriate situation?
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Students mustMark as done
This artilce examines the relationship between leadership and power. Although the article is written from a Judeo-Christian perspective, we can apply the concepts to many organizational situations.
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Students mustMark as done
Read this chapter, which discusses the meaning of power and authority and will inform you of the positive and negative factors related to power and influence.
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Students mustMark as done
This text will examine further the six sources of power available to organizational leaders and how leaders can employ these sources of power and influence in a meaningful and ethical way.
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Students mustMark as done
This article discusses power in organizations. As you read, use the infographics to highlight key concepts.
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Read this article to learn more about the importance of ethics in business relationships. In today's business environment, individuals and organizations are judged by their behaviors. This is where reputations are made.
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Students mustMark as done
Read this blog post for examples of how organizations use social media to engage audiences and network internally and externally.
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Students mustMark as done
Read this presentation about social network analysis. As you read, note how important networks and interactions are to the work of an organization.
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Students mustReceive a grade
Take this assessment to see how well you understood this unit.
- This assessment does not count towards your grade. It is just for practice!
- You will see the correct answers when you submit your answers. Use this to help you study for the final exam!
- You can take this assessment as many times as you want, whenever you want.
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