Surviving and thriving amidst office politics
Going to work each day can become a terrible dread whenever office politics comes to a head. However, most of the time, such predicaments are well beyond our control as individuals. Nevertheless, each and every person within an organisation has a part to play in minimising the occurrences of negative experiences and attitudes at work.
It is possible to survive and even potentially thrive in the midst of harrowing circumstances that take at work.
In terms of surviving office politics, here are some practical steps that you can take to make your experience at the office a more peaceful and enjoyable one:
Be respectful and diplomatic. Whatever the problem may be, practising an attitude of respect for whenever you deal with others, regardless of who they are or what position they hold in the organisation. Give people a sense of dignity through the way you relate to them. People who feel respected would more likely give you a similar treatment. It also makes a huge difference if you handle a conflict carefully and with a sense of tactfulness.
Form strategic alliances. By this I do not mean you should try to get as many people as possible to be on your side whenever there’s a conflict. Rather, your aim should be to be friendly to all and to build good relationships with whoever you’re working with. It is important to find ways to get along even with those whom you dislike or those whom you have trouble getting along with.
Think before you act or speak. As simple as this may seem, it can really make a big difference and save you tons of unnecessary hassle down the road. Despite how you may feel about a certain issue or person, take time to think through your actions or words before doing or saying something.
Understand your office culture. Every workplace has an unwritten code of conduct, and it would benefit you greatly if you are able to detect this and to find ways to use this to your advantage. The point here is not to plot and scheme for your own personal gain, but instead observe how others act around you and adjusting your behaviour to suit the prevailing preferences .
Learn from others. Identify individuals in your company who are performing well and analyse why this is so. Perhaps you could emulate certain things from them regarding how to excel in the place where you work. If he or she is an approachable person, you might like to consider asking them if they would like to be your mentor as well. That way, you can go to him or her directly to seek advice on matters pertaining to the office whenever the need arises..
Go straight to the source. It is common for rumours and all sorts of gossip to spread within a company, but you can play your part in helping to curb it. While it may not possible to stop others from talking, you can do your bit by resolving not to pass on any information that would be detrimental to anyone in the office.
All in all, dealing with office politics is something that can only be learnt through trial and error. Whilst there may not always be a direct solution, it helps if you keep an open mind and maintain a positive attitude coupled by a good sense of humour.
I’m sure every one of you readers out there has had some real life experiences with regards to office politics. Are you the type who would actively participate in it or are you the silent observer? Do you agree with the principles I highlighted just now? Or perhaps you have another method of handling things? Feel free to share your opinions on this topic by dropping a comment.
It is possible to survive and even potentially thrive in the midst of harrowing circumstances that take at work.
In terms of surviving office politics, here are some practical steps that you can take to make your experience at the office a more peaceful and enjoyable one:
Be respectful and diplomatic. Whatever the problem may be, practising an attitude of respect for whenever you deal with others, regardless of who they are or what position they hold in the organisation. Give people a sense of dignity through the way you relate to them. People who feel respected would more likely give you a similar treatment. It also makes a huge difference if you handle a conflict carefully and with a sense of tactfulness.
Form strategic alliances. By this I do not mean you should try to get as many people as possible to be on your side whenever there’s a conflict. Rather, your aim should be to be friendly to all and to build good relationships with whoever you’re working with. It is important to find ways to get along even with those whom you dislike or those whom you have trouble getting along with.
Think before you act or speak. As simple as this may seem, it can really make a big difference and save you tons of unnecessary hassle down the road. Despite how you may feel about a certain issue or person, take time to think through your actions or words before doing or saying something.
Understand your office culture. Every workplace has an unwritten code of conduct, and it would benefit you greatly if you are able to detect this and to find ways to use this to your advantage. The point here is not to plot and scheme for your own personal gain, but instead observe how others act around you and adjusting your behaviour to suit the prevailing preferences .
Learn from others. Identify individuals in your company who are performing well and analyse why this is so. Perhaps you could emulate certain things from them regarding how to excel in the place where you work. If he or she is an approachable person, you might like to consider asking them if they would like to be your mentor as well. That way, you can go to him or her directly to seek advice on matters pertaining to the office whenever the need arises..
Go straight to the source. It is common for rumours and all sorts of gossip to spread within a company, but you can play your part in helping to curb it. While it may not possible to stop others from talking, you can do your bit by resolving not to pass on any information that would be detrimental to anyone in the office.
All in all, dealing with office politics is something that can only be learnt through trial and error. Whilst there may not always be a direct solution, it helps if you keep an open mind and maintain a positive attitude coupled by a good sense of humour.
I’m sure every one of you readers out there has had some real life experiences with regards to office politics. Are you the type who would actively participate in it or are you the silent observer? Do you agree with the principles I highlighted just now? Or perhaps you have another method of handling things? Feel free to share your opinions on this topic by dropping a comment.
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