Trust and Authority in an Organization - Essay Example

An organization requires that members trust one another; else, it will not achieve its goal. Without trust, there is neither cooperation nor the initiative to contribute to the common good. A member will always be inclined to rise above the other, and work in ways that satiate his or her desires regardless of the consequences. Members will not work together as a team, especially when “grapevining” develops, and the competition for a position or recognition presents itself. For this reason, an organization will prove to be a failure.

To make a promise to do one’s best is not enough of a guarantee. A member can be influenced by a number of factors—environment, ambitions, personal preferences, inherent traits, etc that can make it considerably difficult to keep his or her word. In this circumstance, the call for a leader cannot be undervalued. A leader ensures that all members are acquainted with the goals of the organization, of their duties and responsibilities; and that their performance is driven towards the success of the organization.

The leader holds the coercive power upon whom members will tender respect and obedience to; thus instigating agreeable relationships within the organization.