Organizational Behavior
Class Notes Lecture 1 Prof. L. Fraser Rutgers Business School
Essentials of Organizational Behavior Stephen P. Robbins & Timothy A. Judge Chapter 1: Introduction to Organizational Behavior

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Overview
Organizational Behavior
• What is it? • Why is it important? • What is its foundation? • How do OB views differ? • What are the course’s goals?
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Definition of Organizational Behavior
Organizational Behavior studies the influence that individuals, groups and structure have on behavior within organizations. Its chief goal is to apply that knowledge toward improving an organization’s effectiveness.
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Important Every Day Issues for Managers
• • • • • • • • Solving problems Managing conflict Delegating tasks Motivating others Handling absenteeism Hiring and firing Allocating resources Communicating

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Important Long Term Issues for Managers
• Responding to globalization • Managing workforce diversity • Improving quality and productivity • Stimulating innovation and change • Helping work-life balance • Improving ethical behavior • Creating a positive work environment
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Contributing Disciplines for Foundation of the OB Field
Psychology Social Psychology

Sociology
Anthropology
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Manager’s use of common sense
Pick one: 1a. A manager is well advised to treat, as much as possible, all members of his/her group exactly the same way. 1b. A manager is well advised to adjust his/her behavior according to the unique