GUIDELINES TO NRDC feb 24 2014

Informal Organization and GrapevineIntroductionThe informalorganizationReasons forthe informalorganizationInformalpowerExamplesAn organization is a blend of formal and informal relationships:x The formal organization is what appears on an organization chart. Itdefines official relationships among its members.xThe informal organization has no chart, nor is one necessary. Thisorganization is the sum of unofficial and personal relationships among itsmembers, regardless of rank or official position.Besides formal interactions, people in an organization also interact ininformal groups, both in and out of their work sites.Examples:x The commanding general and a first sergeant are close friends--they servedtogether in combat 20 years earlier.x Four branch chiefs meet for lunch every Friday.x Two division chiefs are members of the same fraternal lodge.x Secretaries from three divisions ride in the same car pool.Through these interactions, people build strong personal bonds that reinforceofficial relationships. In these settings they also exchange information theywouldn't normally exchange officially.People seek membership in informal organizations to--x Win acceptance.x Share information.x Build friendships.x Acquire resources.x Advance their aims.x Influence official policies.x Protect their interests.In these associations people with little or no formal authority may possesssome power or influence others because of their--x Personal magnetism.x Institutional memory.x Leadership ability.x Competence.x Control of resources.x Reputation.x Access to information.x Proximity to decision makers.The informal organization can influence the formal organization in these ways:x Attack tough jobs enthusiastically. x Make life miserable for bad bosses.x Cut red tape.x Discipline members who violatex Sabotage unpopular policies.official or unofficial standards.x Support or resist change.x Distance unworthy members.NRDC GRC – Staff Handbook 6-2