How to Wade through the Myriad of Office Politics

Office Politics are those unspoken guidelines and business environment cues used by those in power to maneuver and focus all efforts on their individual goals in the work place. The ability to understand, wade through and survive the politics is a subtle skill that requires understanding of the office covert and overt power structure. It is also includes a delicate dance around certain areas or people who can create trigger mechanisms if it is perceived that the wrong thing is being done.

Moreover, office politics can create a chasm between employees and management if not handled properly. The Organizational Freelancer understands that these subtle cues and guidelines may occur and encroach on their efforts when stepping into someone else's "territory" in the office. Therefore, it may help to leverage the tips below to manage the myriad of office politics before they take control of your project timeline. 

Quick Tips for Wading through Office Politics:
  • Get to know the people who run the covert and overt power dynamics
  • Identify sensitive areas that may be perceived as a  "territorial" risk
  • Do not gossip (don't share it and listen to it)
  • Keep above the fray 
  • Don't get sucked into power plays
  • Avoid prejudging people
  • Omit your bias
  • Be ready to adapt to rapid change
  • Identify the problems and create solutions
  • Avoid talking about problems without identifying a problem-solving path that is both tangible and ready to implement

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