Articles

The Art of Workplace Politics

March 14, 2017 (Number 71) People sometimes complain to me about former peers who have catapulted right past them up their organization's leadership ladder.  "It's politics," they grouse.  But when I inquire how they might enjoy similar success, they insist, "I don't want to be political!"  They view politics as a dark realm of cutthroat schemers where they doubt they could survive.

This perspective can be unnecessarily self-limiting.  An accomplished executive I know once explained, "You either play the political game or you forfeit your power – and then you are forever locked in a junior role."

Stripped of its negative connotations, "politics" in the workplace simply refers to building relationships where there is opportunity for mutual benefit.  It's true that this kind of reciprocity can get unseemly when it develops into a hardened "What's in it for me?" perspective.  And overall, politics at work becomes ugly when personal gain is prioritized over group needs.

So how can you engage in the "good" form of politics and still keep your integrity intact?  Contemplate these tips:
 

• First, as much as possible, get to know every one of your peers and higher-ups who has any impact on your ability to contribute effectively.  Sincerely seek to understand each person's needs, desires and concerns.  And prioritize this networking based on the relative importance of each individual to your success. 

• Start each of these dialogues by focusing on your colleagues’ needs rather than your own.  For example, you might simply ask, "How can I support you?"  Eventually, you'll need to see if your coworker intends to reciprocate.  Some people will “get it,” but many of your colleagues may be clueless – or uninterested in a truly mutual relationship.  Proceed accordingly.

• Also consider that some leaders more advanced in their careers will inherently desire to help you, and may take pleasure in providing you precious bits of inside knowledge.

• If, on the other hand, your coworker speaks ill of a teammate or otherwise introduces impure motives in order to seduce you into an unholy alliance, politely signal your disinterest by, for example, sharing your more virtuous perspectives.

Ultimately, organizational politics is all about your intentions.  People will smell them and if the "scent" is more selflessness than self-interest, they will trust you and want to align with you.

How are you doing in building the necessary relationships in your organization?  Could you have blind spots and be hobbled by old, self-limiting patterns that are precluding you from forming essential connections?  Contact me for a free consultation.

Dean Herman, Ph.D.