What comes to mind when one hears office politics, is usually, the negative. Many of us would rather avoid it or blame our current predicament in the work place to such conflicts. Many would say “Damn office politics!” but should that be how we should see it or react to it?
Office politics is there whether we want it or not and no work place will ever be without it. So there is really no point in shying away from it or hating it to the core. The statement “if you can’t beat them, join them!” pretty much would be the option of your choice at this point. However jumping in, do not necessarily mean you would have to do everything the way they do it and follow the things that you hate about it in the first place. There are ways and things you need to remember when confronting politics in the work place.
A few things might help you out turning what you dread and despise about it into something more meaningful and productive in the long run.
One – Face the Inevitable. If you are an aspiring leader, it may eventually be a requirement for you to really jump in. It would be a neglect of your duties if you do not participate in the political arena of your work. This will show how you handle relationships and work for the betterment of your company and the people who work under you. Being focused and clear about your objectives will help you achieve your goals not just for yourself but for the mutual advantage of everyone.So it’s all about your attitude and frame of mind. Be positive.
Two – Build lasting and stable relations. Although you may have heard nasty things about this game, politics is about building relationships. Now it is up to you to develop the kind of relationships you want to build, but to build relationships according to a set of standards that you value the most is encouraged. This would show people what kind of person you are and they would most likely deal with you in the same manner as well. Good or bad, you will still be connected to them through your work.
Three – Be professional. Always remember you are in the work place. Disagreements will always happen and there would always be conflicting view and ideas. Don’t take them personally and though you may not see eye to eye, as educated people, there should still be mutual respect. Besides, whether you like it or not, you work in the same environment and you will need to work together to achieve the goals of your company.
Wanting change means being the change. If you want things to run smoothly you need to build relationships in the office, you can’t do it all on your own. Yes, you do have values, but it should not stop you from interacting with other people. It is not only demanded of us but it is a moral duty to share what you can contribute in the game of office politics.
Click here to read the full article from Harvard Business Review
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