Summary MNG2601 Learning Unit 8 Individual behavior in the organization

8.1 Individual personalities:

= Managers need to understand & manage behaviour of human resources – as they activate other org resources (fin,
physical & info)



Factors that determine behaviour & influence job performance & relationships with peers, managers & subordinates:

 Unique backgrounds,
 experiences,
 characteristics needs &
 perceptions of individuals



CONCEPTUAL APPROACH TO INDIVIDUALS IN THE ORGANISATION

1. Individual qualities 3.Output 2. Behaviour

 Personality  Talent MARS model of behaviour
 Perceptions  Creativity
 Attitude
 Values
 Emotions




8.1.1 Personality:

= the combination of traits determining how an individual perceives, evaluates & reacts to his environment

FACTORS INFLUENCING PERSONALITY

 Society
 Family
 Culture
 External factors
 Internal factors
 Genetic hereditary
 Personal experiences & attitudes



8.1.2 Workplace personality testing:

PERSONALITY TESTS = used to identify, select, appoint & promote employees

 Purpose = identify individuals who will “fit” in with org




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, ADVANATGES OF WORKPLACE PERSONALITY TESTS

 Reduce risks
 Eliminate bias
 Diminish staff turnover
 Attract new generations
 Foster leaders



8.2 The Big Five personality dimensions (Barrick & Mount):
 5 dimensions affect work-related behavioural outputs
 Play crucial role in enabling individuals to develop skills & competencies they need to perform well
 Influence behaviour of individuals in orgs & subsequently have a positive or negative influence on performance of
org as well



THE BIG 5 DIMENSIONS

1. Openness to experience
2. Conscientiousness
3. Extroversion
4. Agreeableness
5. Neuroticism (emotional stability)



1. OPENNESS TO EXPERIENCE

= People who have broad interests & willing to take risks

TRAITS

 Sensitivity
 Flexibility
 Creativity
 Broad-mindedness
 Imagination



2. CONSCIENTIOUSNESS

Measure of reliability = people who are careful, organised, dependable & responsible

TRAITS

 Greater will to achieve & perform
 Perseverance
 Working hard
 Dimension most closely linked to job performance




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