Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.
– Henry Ford
Listen, office politics, whether we embrace it or cringe at its mention — permeates every workplace. Regardless of our personal feelings, one thing remains certain: we are all part of it. Office politics exists, and it affects everyone, from the seasoned veteran to the fresh-faced newbie.
In my journey working across various corporations, from agencies to multinational companies, I have learned that office politics is unavoidable. Initially, I believed that hard work alone would shield me from its whirlwind. But reality hit: hard work alone isn’t enough. More often than not, navigating the intricate web of office politics can take a toll on a person’s wellbeing. The added stress and pressure, combined with the existing challenges of work, can create an unpleasant work environment.
Indeed, steering office politics requires more than diligence — it demands strategic finesse. Here are some valuable tips and tricks to help you navigate office politics effectively.
Become a person of influence:
To become a person of influence, you must first build your credibility in the workplace. Showcase your skills and deliver results. Let your work speak louder than anything else. Besides, having a good attitude expands your circle of trust. Always maintain a positive attitude, even when deadlines loom like storm clouds. It matters. And if you can, go the extra mile by offering support to your colleagues. Sometimes, those efforts make all the difference.
Be good to your boss:
Being “good” to your boss isn’t about flattery or sycophancy. It’s about proving your values by showing your worth through consistent performance. When office tempests inevitably arise, your boss, who knows you well, can serve as your stalwart defender.
Forge genuine relationships with your colleagues:
Typically, we spend a significant chunk of our day with colleagues. So, it is important to develop good relationships with peers from the same function as well as across divisions. Take time to understand their perspectives, listen actively, respect their opinions, and avoid making assumptions (because assuming makes an “ass” out of “u” and “me”).
Tackle difficult colleagues:
In any workplace, encountering challenging colleagues is almost inevitable. These individuals can complicate situations and create tension, yet not every disagreement requires a full-blown confrontation. Evaluate the importance of the issue first. In fact, silence can be a strategic move. Being silent does not necessarily mean agreement, but sometimes, it is better to let minor issues slide rather than escalate them. What remains important is to stay professional and issue-focused, not personal.
From the tips and tricks I shared, do you notice one pattern? — BUILDING INFLUENCE AND MAINTAINING POSITIVE RELATIONSHIPS. Challenges exist, and office politics can be tricky. However, when you have strong relationships with your peers and bosses, it becomes easier to navigate office politics. You will have allies who can vouch for your character and intentions. So, don’t let office politics take away your passion and the joy of working, but maintaining professionalism and focusing on solutions will help you navigate these murky waters effectively.
