What is the main characteristic of organizational politics?

The main characteristic of organizational politics is its focus on serving personal goals through the use of power and influence. This concept reflects the reality that individuals often seek to enhance their own positions, secure resources, or gain recognition within the organization. It involves exercising influence over others to achieve objectives that may not always align with the broader goals of the organization.

In many organizational settings, political behavior can manifest through networking, persuasion, and strategic alliances. Individuals navigate their workplaces by leveraging their relationships and understanding the informal power structures that exist outside of formal authority. This behavior is not inherently negative; it can sometimes lead to beneficial outcomes for both the individual and the organization, provided it is conducted ethically.

The other answer choices focus more on collective or bureaucratic aspects, which are not the essence of organizational politics. By concentrating on personal agendas rather than organizational unity or structural limitations, the true nature of political behavior in organizations is well captured in the correct response.