Question 3 (25 MARKS) Read the following and Answer the questions that follow: Organizational politics and power All organizations are subject to conflict and competition between the desires and interests of different departments, teams and individuals. Organizational politics refers to the processes through which these rival interests are played out and eventually reconciled. While in an ideal organization, it may be hoped that decisions are made on a rational basis, politics is inherently non-rational and subject to power interactions between diverse interests. Members of an organization are at the same time cooperating to achieve a common goal and competing for rewards, and at times their personal interests may be at odds with the organizations objectives. It is through the political system of an organization that rival interests are resolved. This system represents how power is applied and distributed in the organization. Understanding the political system of an organization is necessary for a leader to operate effectively and reach their goals. A leader, exercising power, is able to have a strong influence on the political climate of an organization through their decisions, their way of handling conflict and providing recognition, support and inspiration to their teams. Organizational politics is the use of power within an organization for the pursuit of agendas and self-interest without regard to their effect on the organization's efforts to achieve its goals.

(a) Discuss any five (5) strategies that individuals may pursue to gain political power within organization systems (20 marks)