Page 150 - The extraordinary leader

Leaders Must Fit Their Organization • 127

network, a bias toward MBAs from certain schools or toward golfing buddies,
this issue is frequently a source of dissatisfaction in many organizations. Orga-
nizations that have developed fairness as a key strength have figured out how
to create an organization relatively free from bias. Leaders who have a strong
desire to treat people with fairness learn to pay careful attention to their biases.
Frequently, these organizations have fewer levels and greater equity in pay
and benefits. There is often a push to treat everyone the same rather than have
one tier of benefits for people at one level and different benefits for those at
another level. These organizations eliminate executive parking and boon-
doggles along with a propensity to hire people of a certain gender, race, age,
or school background.

Advantages. Employees feel a strong positive feeling toward the company.
These organizations are good places to work, with high commitment
from employees. Frequently, employees will have long tenure with these
organizations.
Disadvantages. For individuals who enjoy getting ahead, these organizations
become frustrating after a short stay. Some people want to be separated and
enjoy having the opportunity to get twice the bonus as others. Sometimes the
downside of fairness is that things are too fair and big performance differences
are not noticed.

The Political Organization
The political organization is often referred to as a “good old boys” club. Pol-
itics and connections are among the most critical factors in determining who
will be promoted and who will get a raise. For people who work in these kinds
of organizations, there is a fair amount of predictability. For those who know
the rules and how to play the game, this organization can be a reasonably good
place to work.

Advantages. If you are one of the chosen few, this organization offers great
opportunities. To succeed in this organization, a person has to have a keen
sense of politics and a willingness to play the political game.

Disadvantages. If you are not one of the chosen few, this organization will
be difficult for anyone trying to get ahead in his or her career. For people who
don’t enjoy playing politics, this is not a fun place to work.