How to Never Take Sides at Work

By eHow Careers & Work Editor

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Making a decision or backing a coworker's opinion places you in a position of potential blame when things don't go as planned. Using diplomacy to avoid taking sides is key to always being right or more importantly, never being wrong. Learning the proper techniques for staying out of blame's way keeps you shining while others catch the mud.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

Step1

Keep your mouth shut whenever possible. Never give an opinion or throw an idea into the discussion. Anything you say can and will be used against you when things turn for the worse.

Step2

Nod your head during meetings to show you're listening but use a thoughtful, deep thinking expression when coworkers present ideas. Never show any indication that you like or dislike any idea. Remain completely neutral at all times.

Step3

Use phrases like "I see the potential in both ideas" when forced to give an opinion. This places you out of blame's way by shifting the decision making to others. Any hint of leaning one way or another can be taken as agreement and tarnish your perfect record.

Step4

Sit in the center at any meeting where no one can assume you're taking sides. Disassociate yourself from gatherings of coworkers both at work and on your own time. Be the ally of no one and enemy of none.

Step5

Fly under the radar at work by walking around potential traps like passing the boss's office. Map out alternate routes through the office in order to pass up anyone who may ask your opinion.

Step6

Expect nothing, as being a cowardly employee is sure to keep promotion away but unlikely to get you fired. Protect your current position and you just might find yourself sitting at the same desk on the day you retire.