Organizational Behavior Terminology and Concepts
In today’s business world people are important assets to a business or organization. Because people are important to organizations both big and small, understanding how people interact within various groups is essential. An individual’s interaction within a group is known as organizational behavior. The study of peoples’ behavior in groups is becoming an important factor in organizational structures. Studying organizational behavior is a critical factor in creating an effective and satisfied workforce within an organization (O’Toole, 2011). Understanding how individuals interact with others creates a foundation to build a stronger environment with improved productivity within an organization. Understanding organizational behavior also assists in creating stronger relationships and setting expectations that are achievable for individuals, groups, and the organization as a whole.
Organizational Culture
Building an effective organization requires a focus point to create an organizational culture. Organizational culture is defined as “a shared set of beliefs and values within an organization” (Schermerhorn, 2008). Writing mission and vision statements that reflect an organization’s common goal and values is a standard business practice. There are various types of organizational cultures. The three main organizational categories are: a “Passive/Defensive Culture,” a “Constructive Culture,” and an “Aggressive/Defensive Culture.” A Constructive Culture is the most effective culture out of the three main organizational classifications. A constructive culture is inclusive of all individuals within the group, as opposed to a passive/defensive culture where individuals tend to protect their positions by being passive. An aggressive/defensive culture is similar to a passive/defensive culture because individuals protect their own jobs, but instead of doing so by being passive they act aggressively. Creating a constructive culture in an organization results in individuals working together to provide the organization with the benefit of the ideas that can stem from different people sharing ideas.
Diversity
Today’s business world is compiled of people from various regions of the world, otherwise known as globalization. An ideal organizational culture encourages diversity. A large benefit acquiring different people in a constructive culture is the various possible collaborations that provide a plethora of ideas to be shared. Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey (BCBSNJ) has created a Diversity Council and has created a section devoted to diversity on their website. Horizon BCBSNJ has a diversity statement that states the company’s “commitment to diversity and inclusion” among their stockholder’s. The company states that they “embrace and value differences of culture, education, experience, physical ability and unique perspectives.” Horizon BCBSNJ’s diversity statement also acknowledges the strengths that come from having a cultural environment that encourages diversity. (www.horizon-bcbsnj.com, 2011).
Communication
Communication is a critical organizational tool in keeping internal and external stakeholders informed and aware. With the technology that exists today communication is becoming easier. Organizations communicate using websites, public releases statements, e-mail, text messaging, smartphones, and many other methods. Whatever methods are being used, messages are received instantly. Communication