Organizational politics and human resource management: A typology and the Israeli experience

This paper provides a critical examination of the meaning of organizational politics (OP) for human resource management (HRM). We develop our discussion in three main sections. First, we explain the commonly negative image of OP and argue that it also has some positive dimensions useful for understanding HRM. Based on this rationale and on previous writings we present a balanced and non-judgmental approach towards politics in HRM. We extend the discussion to suggest a specific typology and model that, in our view, better explains the meaning of OP for HRM than current definitions. The model includes aspects of positive/constructive HRM, negative/destructive HRM, ineffective HRM and virtual HRM. Finally, we examine the implications of the model in the context of the changing Israeli cultural environment. This historical–cultural analysis pertains to similar global shifts and points to future HRM challenges in Israel and around the world.