Office politics are an unavoidable part of our working lives, but truly destructive or negative politics can destroy an organisation through decreased productivity and continued staff issues such as turnover and absenteeism.
“Playing politics” can and will impact the career paths of individuals in organisations everywhere. So, how can you deal with office politics, and remain professional and engaged. Here are some tips:
Number 1: Don’t choose sides!
Ensure you remain professional, pleasant and courteous to everyone. Asset yourself when you need to and don’t involve yourself in other peoples issues. Remain engaged in the business of doing your job and don’t become aligned or involved with other employees who are hell bent on tearing other employees down.
Number 2: Be trustworthy – keep confidences!
What is worse than sharing a secret? Being caught out of course!
Keep your own counsel at all times. If you have been told something in confidence – then keep it that way. People have a way of finding things out, and your Manager will not be pleased if he or she cannot trust you. Trust is built over a long period of time – and lost far more quickly.
Number 3: Build loyalty
Helping others when you can will build relationships and respect. Obviously, it’s important that you make sure your work is completed and your level of productivity is not affected – but take time for others.
Number 4: Keep your nose clean
Gossip – you can either be the person in it – or the person that spreads it. Either way, becoming the brunt of office gossip or passing it on in the kitchen over coffee is not an effective use of your time nor will it build solid working relationships.
Stay out of it!
Shift conversation onto different topic or walk away claiming you have just remembered a deadline you have to meet. Whatever you do – just don’t get in the middle of it.
Number 5: Never “bag” the Company or a Manager
So, you have had a horrible day. You’re not feeling particularly engaged at the moment! So what do you do?
What you don’t do is start bagging anyone out – or get involved in conversations where others are behaving this way. You never know who is listening or can hear you. Save your venting for when you get home and can do this safely in the walls of your own private space.
Number 6: Managers – Walk the Talk
Your actions do speak louder than words and you will be keenly observed by all your employees and others who will determine if they want to work with and for you.
Encourage and empower your team. Remember that knowledge should be shared and hanging on to it is just plain selfish.
Be honest at all times – but be sensitive. Communicate often and seek feedback and ideas.
Involve your team as much as possible. Limit the opportunity for gossip and politics by being open, honest and transparent.
Finally – set expectations and then ensure they are met.
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