Here are 5 tips how you can survive the menace of office politics, says Tan Wen Hui.
Office Politics: Its the battle of the executives!
Office politics – I HATE! This statement is no more than apt a description of how most people view office politics. Filled with hatred for these two words, ironically, many find themselves embroiled in the struggle for power at work.
This brings to point why people choose to engage in office politics. As an office worker, getting acquainted with your colleagues is the next step to take in order to feel “at home” while at work. In addition, getting acquainted helps to increase your visibility; thereby increasing your chances of getting promoted.
Then again, it is wise to be on your guard as colleagues may not be as honest as you have perceived them to be. After all, colleagues are humans to begin with – they share one similar trait, which is, lust for power. Nevertheless, here are five tips how you can play your cards right to brave the political storm, don’t tread on thin ice!
Five Tips to Winning Office Politics:
Stay Focused!: “It is better to err on the side of caution” – this old adage can be applied in the context of work, especially during critical periods like the unforeseen financial downturn. As companies buckle up to tighten their belts, employees should stop fighting amongst themselves or trying to resolve conflicts; whatever, because this in turn translates into financial loss for the company when work is left untouched. The result: employees who are deemed “unproductive” will be asked to leave, it is best to stay focused while at work.
Know What Your Aims Are: Moreover, by staying focused on your work you are also prioritising your tasks and responsibilities. Taking charge helps to project an independent image to your colleagues, in no time they are bound to look up to you.
Rub Shoulders Only during Break Time: As the popular saying goes, “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens,” Similarly, there is also a time when you and your colleagues can get together for short sharing session, preferably during meal times. After work is good for socialising – that is if you want to spend more time getting to know your colleague in person.
On a cautionary note, it is important to bear in mind that personal stuff should be kept away from your colleagues’ know, otherwise you will be the centre of negative discourse.
Get a Mentor: Nothing beats having an excellent mentor apt at showing you the ropes of the trade and in return, your mentor will get to enjoy the attention bestowed upon him/her. Call it a case of mutual respect and understanding. Select a reliable senior whom you can trust to be your mentor – you have got nothing to lose at this point.
Be Nice: Whether it’s a colleague whose company you enjoy, or a nasty Head of Department whom many are intolerant of his belligerent attitude, playing “Mr Nice Guy” helps to strengthen your relationship with everyone. At the same time, it helps to quell whatever negative thought others once had of you. Hint: Be professional.
In conclusion…
While these five tips did work for me, it is up to you to explore other amicable ways of bonding and working with your colleagues and supervisors. Because office politics is unavoidable, the only way around it is to deal with it.
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November 25, 2011
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