In this program, leaders learn to accurately read political environments, build ethical influence, develop political skills deliberately, and navigate complex organizational power dynamics with confidence and integrity.
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Format: In-person
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Dates: June 17-18, 2026
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Duration: 1.5 days (8:00 AM – 5:00 PM 1st day; 8:00 AM – noon 2nd day)
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Location: TBD
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Tuition: $1,895
Too often, leaders think of organizational politics as something negative, manipulative, or beneath them. Yet politics is simply how influence, perception, and power actually work inside organizations. Leaders who ignore politics frequently find their best ideas blocked, their careers stalled, or their credibility undermined — not because they lacked competence, but because they lacked political skill.
Navigating Organizational Politics reframes politics from a problem to avoid into a leadership capability to be understood and used responsibly. Grounded in political skill research and Jeffrey Pfeffer’s work on power, this one-day executive program helps leaders develop the ability to read situations accurately, build alliances intentionally, influence ethically, and tolerate healthy conflict when needed. Through highly applied discussion, analysis of real cases, structured frameworks, and reflective exercises, participants learn how to approach politics with realism, confidence, and purpose rather than anxiety or avoidance.
By the end of the program, leaders leave with a practical personal Power & Influence strategy, clearer awareness of the political environments they operate in, and stronger capability to protect their agendas, strengthen their leadership credibility, and contribute more effectively to their organizations.
Key Takeaways
Participants will learn how to:
- Define and diagnose organizational politics and power dynamics
- Understand political skill as a learnable leadership capability
- Apply the four dimensions of political skill in real situations
- Operationalize Pfeffer’s seven facets of power in ethical, effective ways
- Recognize destructive political dynamics and mitigate their impact
- Build a personal Power & Influence strategy aligned with values and role demands
Who Should Attend
This program is designed for:
Roles:
Senior leaders, executives, directors, high-potential leaders, and functional leaders
operating in complex environments
Industries:
Applicable across all industries where influence, stakeholder dynamics, and organizational
navigation are critical
Situational readiness:
- Leaders responsible for strategy, change, or enterprise initiatives
- Leaders navigating high-stakes environments or political complexity
- Leaders who want to strengthen influence without compromising ethics
Curriculum & Topics
Day One (Morning)
Module 1: The Reality of Organizational Politics
What politics are, why they exist, and why ignoring them is risky
Module 2: Political Skill as a Leadership Capability
The four dimensions of political skill and how leaders apply them
Day One (Afternoon)
Module 3: Building Power – Jeffrey Pfeffer’s 7 Facets
Understanding and developing legitimate power as a leadership resource
Module 4: Politics in Action
Case discussions, film analysis, and real-world examples of politics at work
Day Two
Module 5: When Politics Turn Destructive
Recognizing unhealthy dynamics and minimizing damage
Module 6: Personal Power & Influence Strategy
Individual reflection and practical action planning
Pre-Work
Assessments: Political Skill Inventory (short Likert-type survey)
Peer interaction: Built into program discussions and activities
Faculty
David Howard, PhD - Program Director
David Howard, PhD is Academic Director of the USF Center for Executive and Leadership Education, Program Director for the DBA program, and Associate Professor of Instruction at the Muma College of Business. With a background in leadership development, organizational culture, and executive coaching, he consults with organizations and teaches both undergraduate and doctoral courses.Benefits for Organizations
Participants will return with improved ability to:
- Navigate political environments more confidently and responsibly
- Build alliances that support execution and strategic progress
- Influence outcomes ethically and intentionally
- Reduce blind spots related to power, perception, and informal influence
This program supports organizations seeking to:
- Strengthen leadership maturity
- Improve decision-making in politically complex contexts
- Protect key initiatives from political derailment
Program Format
This program is delivered in an immersive, interactive format designed to maximize engagement and peer learning. A detailed agenda will be shared with registered participants in advance.
Certificate & Pathways
Participants will receive a USF Executive Education Certificate of Completion.
Logistics
Detailed program information, including the agenda, parking instructions, and recommended hotel accommodations, will be provided to registered participants prior to the program start date.
All cancellation and substitution requests must be submitted in writing.
Cancellations
Cancellations received 14 days or more prior to the program start date will receive a full refund, minus a $250 administrative fee. Cancellations received within 14 days of the program start date are non-refundable.
Substitutions
Substitutions may be made at any time prior to the program start date at no additional cost. If pre-program assessments have already been completed, associated assessment fees are non-refundable.
Program Changes
The ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ reserves the right to cancel or reschedule a program. In the event of cancellation by the University, registered participants will receive a full refund.
Group Pricing & Custom Options
Discount Eligibility
USF alumni and active-duty military members and veterans are eligible for a 10% discount on all open-enrollment programs.
Please enter the appropriate discount code at checkout. Discounts are offered in good faith. Proof of eligibility may be requested prior to program start.
Discounts cannot be combined with other promotional offers.
USF Alumni
USF alumni receive 10% off open-enrollment programs with code USFALUMNI10.
Military & Veterans
Active-duty military members and veterans receive 10% off open-enrollment programs with code MILITARY10.