Tips For Office Politics
Office politics is one name given to worker interactions that don't directly serve the organization by which the workers are employed. Instead, these interactions are often based on the personalities of the employees and their attempts to get ahead professionally -- or prevent others from doing the same. At some point in your career, you must either learn to handle office politics or risk becoming a victim of the same. By following a few tips carefully, however, you should avoid the majority of the fallout.
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Don't Disregard Them
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Many people try to rise above office politics by not engaging in them, downplaying their importance or just hoping they'll go away. This approach is not only shortsighted but could permanently damage your career. As nice as it would be if job competence were the only element affecting your position, that usually isn't the case. Getting along with others, as well as fostering the perception that you are competent and loyal, goes a long way in succeeding at work.
Stay Professional
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Resist the urge to fire back a nasty response to any negative politics. This includes poor performance feedback, rumors and other comments that people in your office make. Keep the focus on the job at all times. Do not let backbiting interfere with your regular duties, or you could find your position in real jeopardy. Reinforce your commitment, to supervisors and team members, that you want everyone to succeed and for the company as a whole to do well.
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Stay Calm
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Avoid showing your detractors an emotional reaction. Sometimes, those who engage in the cruel kind of office politics do so specifically to make others upset. Do not yell, cry or otherwise demonstrate your frustration. Remain calm and serene, no matter what is happening. If you absolutely must, have your emotional reaction at home, in the bathroom or in your car on your lunch break. Go to a private place to express yourself -- the worst thing you can do is let your opponents see how badly they made you feel.
Be Proactive
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Take a proactive approach in solving political office problems. For instance, tell a coworker who has been making secretive, nasty comments that you heard "through the grapevine" she was unhappy with you. Tell her you value her opinion and respect her, and want to know how to have a better relationship. This helps approach the problem in a positive way -- as well as showing the coworker you are on to her game.
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References
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