A CRITICAL EVALUATION OF OFFICE POLITICS AS A CATALYST OF POOR TEAMWORK IN BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS IN CAMEROON

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the study

In a professional setting, the repercussions of a team's failure include the emergence of divisions, the establishment of opposing sides, breakdown in communication, and an increase in suspicion. Productivity and efficiency decline significantly, while collaboration or invention becomes extremely difficult. The attention shifts from one's professional responsibilities to the activities and plans of each individual, as well as considering one's own future actions. The objective shifts from collective triumph and accomplishment to personal self-preservation. According to Joe et al. (2018), when teams fail and divisions emerge, the level of civility in the workplace significantly declines. Insufficient reciprocal regard and occasional overt animosity will terminate all fruitful exchange. Due to the team's failure or ongoing failure, individuals no longer prioritise the collective tasks of the team and instead focus solely on their own survival. Oftentimes, their foremost priority is to ensure the fulfilment of their individual duties rather than the collective responsibilities of the team. Shared obligations are often neglected or carried out with reluctance and incompetence (Jeff et al., 2019). In an environment devoid of politeness and a collective sense of accountability, there will be no assistance or motivation provided. When teams encounter difficulties, team members often derive inspiration from the caring, support, and encouragement of their teammates. However, in unfortunate circumstances where a team experiences failure or is already failing, each member is forced to confront their particular issues independently and without assistance (Tosin, Bassey & Emeka, 2022).

Effective collaboration is a vital factor in promoting business expansion. Amidst the dynamic and cutthroat business environment of today, firms that cultivate a culture centred upon collaboration and teamwork are more inclined to achieve success and flourish. Collaboration not only boosts efficiency but also fosters creativity, improved problem-solving, and heightened employee contentment. Collaboration is commonly acknowledged as a fundamental aspect of effective corporate operations. By using the many abilities and perspectives of team members, it promotes collaboration, innovation, and productivity. Efficient collaboration results in expanded problem-solving capabilities, elevated staff morale, and superior overall performance. A study suggests that one of the most evident advantages of teamwork is enhanced productivity (Sanusi & Sanusi, 2020). Collaborative and cohesive teamwork among employees leads to increased productivity and efficiency. Each team member possesses distinct skills, experiences, and viewpoints, enabling them to effectively handle intricate jobs. This collaboration results in enhanced productivity and a more favourable return on investment (Sanusi & Sanusi, 2020). Nevertheless, the intrusion of office politics into the workplace can undercut these advantages, resulting in impaired communication, diminished collaboration, and a noxious work atmosphere.

Office politics, an unavoidable element of organisational life, encompasses the intricate and often hidden power dynamics and social interactions among individuals and groups within a workplace (Majid, 2020). These dynamics often impact the processes of making decisions, allocating resources, advancing careers, and the overall climate of the organisation. Although office politics can occasionally result in beneficial consequences such as improved communication and strategic collaboration, it frequently becomes a fertile environment for conflicts, mistrust, and inefficiencies (Sanjay, 2019). Office politics encompasses the dynamics and acts that occur in human relationships, specifically related to power and authority (Musa, 2018). It functions as a means to evaluate the ability to operate effectively and reconcile differing perspectives of stakeholders (Sam, 2019). Termed as workplace politics or organisational politics, it encompasses the utilisation of authority and social connections within a workplace to bring about advantageous changes for persons involved. Aamodt (2017) defines organisational politics as manipulative actions employed by employees to enhance their chances of achieving favourable results within an organisation. Individuals may exert influence in a way that prioritises their own interests, without considering the impact on the organisation (Aamodt, 2017). Individual benefits may encompass the ability to utilise physical resources or intangible advantages like social standing and perceived authority that exert influence on others (Jotham, 2017).

inside the specific setting of Cameroon, a nation characterised by its distinct socio-cultural and economic environment, the presence of office politics presents notable obstacles to achieving efficient teamwork inside corporate organisations. The dynamic interaction between traditional beliefs, hierarchical structures, and modern corporate practices gives rise to a multifaceted atmosphere conducive to the flourishing of office politics (Ngew and Clarence, 2020). Gaining a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies of this setting is essential in order to effectively tackle the negative effects on collaboration and the overall effectiveness of the organisation. The business environment in Cameroon is influenced by a combination of local cultural norms and external factors. Conventional hierarchical systems frequently prioritise deference to authority and seniority, which can sustain unequal distribution of power and favouritism. In addition, economic difficulties and a scarcity of job prospects can heighten rivalry among workers, so exacerbating office politics. Within numerous Cameroonian organisations, office politics is evident through various behaviours, including favouritism, nepotism, betrayal, and the establishment of exclusive groups (Ngew, 2022). These activities have the potential to foster an environment characterised by suspicion and competition, which can impede the free flow of communication and limit collaboration. Consequently, team members may prioritise their individual interests over shared objectives, resulting in inefficiencies and a deterioration in overall performance. This study aims to assess the role of office politics in exacerbating poor collaboration within Business organisations in Cameroon. 

1.2 Statement of the problem

It is essential to comprehend the influence of office politics on teamwork in Cameroon, where the corporate climate is continuously changing and becoming more competitive. Efficient collaboration is crucial for achieving organisational success, since it fosters creativity, efficiency, and employee contentment. Nevertheless, the dynamics of office politics can erode these elements by cultivating suspicion, rivalry, and discord among colleagues.

Research has demonstrated that the dynamics of internal power struggles inside an organisation, sometimes referred to as office politics, can impede or divert efforts to implement change. This can occur by generating opposition among influential individuals or by diverting attention away from the overarching objectives of the organisation onto individual interests. The opposition can be expressed through acts of sabotage, dissemination of misinformation, or the development of coalitions that hinder the process of change (Olotu, 2022). Tonepri et al. (2020) argue that political manoeuvring in an organisation might create a biassed atmosphere where only ideas supported by personal relationships rather than merit are recognised. This might impede the process of creative thought and the execution of inventive solutions, since individuals may be less inclined to participate or share ideas in an environment that is politically charged. Moreover, the existence of office politics can significantly impact the entire organisational culture, influencing employees' perceptions of equity, confidence, and cooperation. The modified culture can additionally impact the organization's capacity to adapt and innovate proficiently (Mandy et al., 2021).

Although office politics is increasingly recognised as a crucial component that influences organisational success, there is a lack of empirical study that particularly examines its impact on teamwork in Cameroonian corporate organisations. The absence of extensive research creates a void in comprehending the functioning of office politics in this particular setting and its impact on fostering subpar collaboration. This study aims to analyse the role of office politics in contributing to ineffective collaboration within corporate organisations in Cameroon. The objective is to determine the precise processes by which office politics influences team dynamics, the resulting consequences for organisational performance, and feasible approaches to alleviate these adverse impacts.

Objectives of the study

The primary objective of this study is to critically evaluate office politics as a catalyst of poor teamwork in Business organizations in Cameroon. Specific objectives of this study are to:

To identify specific office politics behaviors and practices that contribute to poor teamwork in Business organizations in Cameroon.

To examine the impact of office politics on collaboration, and overall teamwork within Business organizations in Cameroon

To evaluate the consequences of poor teamwork on organizational performance and employee satisfaction in Business organizations in Cameroon

To propose strategies for addressing office politics and improving teamwork in Cameroonian business organizations

1.4 Research Questions

The following research questions which are in line with the objectives of this study will be answered in this study:

In what ways does office politics contribute to poor teamwork within Business organizations in Cameroon?

What is the impact of office politics on collaboration, and overall teamwork within Business organizations in Cameroon?

What is the impacts of poor teamwork on organizational performance and employee satisfaction in Business organizations in Cameroon?

What strategies can be implemented to mitigate the negative effects of office politics and enhance teamwork?

1.5 Research Hypotheses

To determine the effectiveness of this study, the following research null hypotheses will be formulated to guide the study and it will be tested at 0.05% levels of significance.:

Ho: Office politics does not contribute to poor teamwork within Business organizations in Cameroon.

Ha: Office politics significantly contributes to poor teamwork within Business organizations in Cameroon.

1.6 Significance of the study

Considering the substantial influence of office politics on cooperation, it is crucial to thoroughly assess its function in Cameroonian commercial organisations. The objective of this study is to investigate the root reasons of office politics, its various expressions, and the precise methods through which it inhibits teamwork. By comprehending these dynamics, organisations can formulate methods to alleviate the adverse impacts of office politics, promoting a more cooperative and efficient work environment. 

Office politics frequently exert a significant influence on the dynamics of the workplace. This study intends to analyse the impact of political manoeuvring on teamwork and organisational success. By examining its role in undermining teamwork, the study seeks to provide insights into how political manoeuvring might disrupt collaborative efforts. Gaining a comprehensive understanding of this influence is essential for formulating methods to alleviate its adverse consequences.

Moreover, the establishment of effective teamwork is crucial in order to successfully accomplish organisational objectives. By identifying the ways in which office politics obstructs collaboration, firms may more effectively address these difficulties. Organisations may optimise their performance, productivity, and employee satisfaction by enhancing cooperation.

Moreover, the study's concentration on Cameroon offers valuable perspectives on the functioning of office politics within a distinct cultural and economic setting. This localised approach facilitates comprehension of distinct regional difficulties and dynamics, which may vary considerably from those in other nations. Additionally, it can aid in the creation of culturally appropriate approaches to navigate office politics.

Moreover, the outcomes could provide valuable insights for the formulation of policies at both the organisational and governmental levels. The study's focus on the negative consequences of office politics can provide valuable assistance for the development of policies that try to enhance workplace conditions and tackle the underlying factors contributing to conflict and ineffective collaboration. The results might provide guidance to managers and leaders in Cameroon on how to establish a work climate that is characterised by transparency and fairness. This include the implementation of rules aimed at mitigating the adverse effects of office politics, advocating for evaluations based on merit, and cultivating an inclusive culture.

This study enhances the academic discussion on organisational behaviour by offering a thorough assessment of office politics within a particular setting. This study contributes to the current body of knowledge by examining the impact of local office politics on teamwork and business outcomes.

1.7 Scope of the study

Broadly, this study focus is to critically evaluate office politics as a catalyst of poor teamwork in Business organizations in Cameroon. Specifically, this study seeks to identify specific office politics behaviors and practices that contribute to poor teamwork in Business organizations in Cameroon and examine the impact of office politics on collaboration, and overall teamwork within Business organizations in Cameroon. 

Further, this study will focus on evaluating the consequences of poor teamwork on organizational performance and employee satisfaction in Business organizations in Cameroon and it also seeks to propose strategies for addressing office politics and improving teamwork in Cameroonian business organizations.

 The study is carried out in Cameroon. 

1.8 Limitations of the study

As with any human endeavour, the researchers experienced many minor constraints during the investigation. The main limitation was the lack of extensive literature on the subject, due to the limited availability of data about the critical assessment of office politics as a factor contributing to poor teamwork in Business organisations in Cameroon. Hence, a significant allocation of time and exertion was necessary to ascertain the appropriate materials, books, or information and amass data. 

Furthermore, this study is constrained by its small sample size and narrow geographic scope, focussing just on Cameroon. Therefore, the conclusions of this study cannot be generalised, thus requiring further investigation. 

Moreover, the researcher's restrictions were primarily due to financial constraints, as they are a student without any source of income to sustain themselves. The exorbitant transportation charges at the research location posed a challenge in covering the expenses for transportation fees.

Furthermore, the researcher faced a time constraint due to the need to conduct this study while simultaneously fulfilling the obligations of attending lectures and participating in other educational activities.

1.9 Definition of terms

Politics: Politics is activities aimed at improving someone's status or increasing power within an organization.

Office politics: Also known as office politics and organizational politics, it involves the use of power and social networking within a workplace to achieve changes that benefit individuals within it.

Teamwork: Teamwork is the collaborative effort of a group to achieve a common goal or to complete a task in an effective and efficient way. Teamwork is seen within the framework of a team, which is a group of interdependent individuals who work together towards a common goal.