Management Term Paper (Term Paper Sample)

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Introduction
A group refers to an association of two or more people who have common objectives and work towards achieving the same goals. Groups have been seen to achieve great efficiency within organizations and also improve individuals’ interpersonal relationships which are as a result of sharing the same interests.
Types of groups
There are many types of groups and each classification identifies individual with a particular set of character or share a common interest. The major types of groups are:
Formal groups are created for the sole purpose of achieving specific objectives or carry out specifically assigned tasks. Formal groups have a well defined structure and a defined channel of communication and authority. They include:
The top-management team which includes the key decision makers in the organization.
Research and development team which represents the group of people in charge of developing new products and venturing into new markets.
Command groups where subordinates report to one supervisor.
Self-managed work team. This is a group whose members are in charge of their own operations
Informal groups exist as a result of individuals sharing a common interest. They include
Friendship groups where the members are identified by sharing the same company and socializing in the same circles.
Interest groups where the members share a common interest and they pursue it collectively.
Motivating Factors
Managers can motivate group members to achieve organizational goals and reduce social loafing in groups and teams in the following ways:
(a) Participation in Planning—when employees are given a choice to plan their own work and they are able to contribute to organizational planning, the plans are more acceptable to them—after all they have taken part in making them.
(b) Challenging Work—when work is not challenging boredom sets in and this is likely to cause sluggishness and dissatisfaction at the place of work.
(c) Recognition and Status—most people want approval by peers, friends and bosses. Benefits that show status e.g. company car, credit card, club membership may increase motivation.
(d) Authority, responsibility and power. Some people are motivated greatly by being responsible for the work of others. Many people stay in organizations with a hope of rising to higher levels.
(f) Security, especially financial security is achieved mainly through secure and comprehensive labor contracts e.g. that involve medical covers and insurance.
(h) Personal growth—people want to grow wholesomel...