CMN 122 Chapter Notes - Chapter 49: Organizational Communication
Document Summary
Positions of power: status & dominance in organizational communication. There is no such thing as a power free species, human society, or organization. Power typically refers to the ability to influence others to do what one wants. Status references one"s position in society which generally contributes to power & dominance. Dominance refers to one"s relative position of power in relation to others. A person"s physical appearance conveys power primarily through clothing & physical size. Clothing creates organizational first impressions by communicating a number of simultaneous messages. Our clothes broadcast our sex, rank, and up-to-dateness. Formal dress conveys increased power & control. The suit is a symbol of dominance in the organization. A uniform is a unique form of attire because it both conceals & reveals status while suppressing other status cues. High-status dress simultaneously creates perceptions of power & induces conformity. Students fled more rapidly when their space was invaded by a well-dressed man than a causually dressed man.
