Political Skill at Work: Impact on Work Effectiveness

by Gerald R. Ferris, Sherry L. Davidson, Pamela L. Perrewé

In today's flatter, matrix-based organizations, the ability to influence and motivate others is key to both individual and organizational success. This is the essence of political skill and everyone wants more of it. But what do we know about how it really works? Political Skill at Work is the first thorough examination of an ability that is as subtle as it is powerful. The result of more than 15 years of research, this well-documented study is rich with examples of individuals using political skill to succeed in the corporate world, government, education, and sports. Combining scholarship with practical advice, the authors explore what political skill is and isn't, why and how it works, and how it can be measured and developed.

184 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 2005

About the author

Gerald R. Ferris is a professor of Management and professor of psychology at Florida State University. He has published extensive research in the areas of social influence in organizations, performance evaluation, relationships at work and reputation in organizational contexts.

Reviews

[Muhammad Ali · Rating 4 out of 5]

Political Skills is a must have, not a good to have skillset any more. A brief yet comprehensive, pragmatic yet easy to understand book. Turns out that your prowess Political starts deciding your fate from day zero of getting hired all the way towards an effective leadership and team performance.

[Winyen · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not completely useless, but very theoretical and not a lot of actionable advice to build political skill.

[George · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book was as-expected. A quick summary of and guide to the concept of political skill. It won't change your life, but if you read it as part of a general survey of self management books, you will probably find it to be useful. I recommend it, but it only gets two stars.