The Hidden Power of Social Networks: Understanding How Work Really Gets Done in Organizations

Rob Cross And Andrew Parker

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A powerful, visual framework helps managers discover how employees really communicate and collaborate to get work done and helps them identify ways they can influence these social networks to improve performance and innovation. In "The Hidden Power of Social Networks", Cross and Parker, experts in "social network analysis", a technique that visually maps relationships between people in large, distributed groups apply this powerful tool to management for the first time. Based on their in-depth study of sixty informal employee networks in well-known companies around the world, Cross and Parker show managers how to conduct a social network analysis of their organization.

What will you learn from this book

  1. Social Network Analysis (SNA): The book likely introduces the concept of Social Network Analysis and its application in understanding the relationships and connections among individuals within an organization.

  2. Informal Networks: Expect insights into the significance of informal networks in the workplace and how they often play a crucial role in getting work done, sometimes more so than formal organizational structures.

  3. Communication Flow: The authors may discuss how social networks impact communication flow, including the spread of information and knowledge across different levels and departments.

  4. Influence and Power Structures: The book may delve into how social networks reveal influence and power structures within an organization, going beyond official titles and positions.

  5. Collaboration and Innovation: Insights into how social networks foster collaboration and innovation within teams and across the organization could be a key theme.

  6. Identifying Key Connectors: The authors may provide strategies for identifying key connectors or influential individuals within the social network, as they often play pivotal roles in the dissemination of information.

  7. Overcoming Silos: Expect discussions on how an understanding of social networks can help break down silos and improve cross-functional collaboration within organizations.

  8. Employee Engagement: The book may touch upon how social networks contribute to employee engagement and satisfaction, as well as how leaders can leverage these networks for positive organizational outcomes.

  9. Network Leadership: Insights into how leaders can adopt a network perspective in their leadership style, recognizing and leveraging the power of social connections.

  10. Practical Applications: Look for real-world examples and case studies illustrating the practical applications of Social Network Analysis within organizations and how it has led to improved performance and efficiency.

Language English
ISBN-10 1591392705
ISBN-13 9781591392705
No of pages 213
Font Size Medium
Book Publisher Harvard Business Review Press
Published Date 02 Jun 2004

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