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Administrators Quote by C. Northcote Parkinson

“Administrators make work for each other so that they can multiply the number of their subordinates and enhance their prestige.” quote by C. Northcote Parkinson
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“Administrators make work for each other so that they can multiply the number of their subordinates and enhance their prestige.”

C. Northcote Parkinson

About This Quote

Source Essay: Parkinson's Law, The Economist, 1955

Leaders create work for subordinates to increase their team size and boost status, highlighting power dynamics.

In simple terms: Leaders make work to gain power.

Key Takeaway

Beware power‑driven bureaucracy.

Themes

leadership power bureaucracy

Mood

critical analytical

Type

business political

When to use this quote

  • management training
  • corporate restructuring
  • political analysis

Key Concepts

organizational behavior status seeking

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why do leaders seek larger teams?
  • How can organizations stay efficient?
A Different Perspective

Power motives can inflate organizations unnecessarily.

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