Organizational behavior (OB)

Organizational behavior (OB) is the study of how individuals and groups behave within
organizations. It's like looking under the hood of a company to understand what makes
it tick, but instead of gears and pistons, we're examining the thoughts, feelings, and
actions of the people who work there.
Imagine a workplace as a zoo, but instead of tigers and deer you’ve got humans in suits
or in jeans depending on the organization’s policy. Here OB is like having a zoo
keeper’s manual that helps you to understand these humans, and to figure out what
makes them tick, why they sometimes fight over the stapler, and how to keep the whole
eco-system running smoothly.
Here arises the big question Why is studying OB important?
There are several reasons behind this;
• It helps organizations thrive: By understanding what motivates employees,
fosters teamwork, and leads to high performance, organizations can create
workplaces that are both productive and enjoyable. This can lead to increased
profits, lower turnover rates, and a better reputation.
• It benefits employees: Studying OB can help employees understand themselves
and their colleagues better. They can learn how to communicate more effectively,
build stronger relationships, and navigate the often-complex dynamics of
organizational life. This can lead to greater job satisfaction, career advancement,
and overall well-being.
• It's applicable to all types of organizations: Whether you work in a multinational
corporation, a small family business, or a non-profit organization, the principles of
OB apply. Understanding how people behave in groups can be helpful in any
setting where people come together to achieve a common goal.
Here are some of the key areas that OB focuses on:
• Motivation: What drives people to work hard and achieve their goals?
• Leadership: How can leaders inspire and guide their teams to success?
• Communication: How can information be shared effectively within an
organization?
• Decision-making: How do groups make choices that benefit the organization as a
whole?
• Conflict management: How can disagreements be resolved constructively?
• Organizational culture: What are the shared values and beliefs that shape an
organization's identity?
Studying OB is not just about memorizing theories and frameworks. It's about
developing critical thinking skills, learning to observe and analyze human behavior, and
understanding the complex interplay between individuals, groups, and organizations.
These skills are valuable in any career path, not just in business or management. So,
whether you're an aspiring leader, a team player, or simply someone who's curious
about how organizations work, studying OB can offer valuable insights and equip you
with the knowledge to navigate the ever-changing world of work.