6 Ways For Navigate Office Politics at Your Workplace

Office politics can be quite challenging to navigate. On one hand, you want to be seen as a team player and someone willing to go the extra mile to get things done. On the other hand, you don’t want to get caught up in the drama and gossip that can sometimes come with office politics and tarnish your image.

According to the Corporate Finance Institute, office politics exist in virtually all organisations. They are the activities performed by individuals to improve their status and advance their agenda – sometimes at the expense of others. These self-serving actions are informal or unofficial and could be the reason why politics in the workplace comes with a negative connotation.

So, if you’re not careful and vigilant enough, office politics could be damaging to your career. Additionally, it can make it difficult to get promoted and could lead to conflict with your colleagues. Eventually, it can even make it difficult for you to do your job.

But if you’re smart about it, you can use office politics to your advantage. You can do this by putting your best foot forward and using it to build relationships, get ahead in your career, and make connections. It’s a simple tit-for-tat strategy.

Here are a few tips on how to navigate office politics in your workplace:

1. Be aware of the different kinds of office politics

There are many different types of office politics to be aware of. It is essential to identify them and know what they look like. One common type is power politics, which involves the struggle for authority and control over decision-making and resources. Other types to watch out for include micromanagement, credit stealing, and hoarding of information. Being aware of these types of office politics will help you spot them and avoid getting caught up in them.

2. Don’t get involved in gossip

Gossip is one of the most destructive forms of office politics. It can damage relationships, create conflict, and make it difficult to get work done. If you hear gossip, don’t spread it further. And if you’re the target of gossip, try not to take it personally.

3. Build relationships with your colleagues

Another effective way to navigate office politics is to build positive relationships with your colleagues. Get to know them outside of work. Learn about their interests and hobbies. Be willing to lend a helping hand when they need it. Doing this will shield you from negative energy in the office and help you maintain your sanity.

Furthermore, building great relationships with your colleagues will eventually contain the other person’s negativity or get them exposed.

4. Maintain professionalism at all times

“No gree for anybody” does not apply to every situation, especially in this context. Even when dealing with difficult people, it’s crucial to remain professional. Don’t let your emotions overwhelm you, and avoid stooping to their level. It’s natural to feel resentment over time, but it’s important to manage your emotions and avoid outbursts. Reacting emotionally can backfire and be used against you, which is something you want to prevent.

Instead, if necessary, have a private conversation with them to communicate your boundaries and expectations for future interactions.

5. Don’t hesitate to speak up

Following on from the previous point, while maintaining professionalism is important to avoid emotional outbursts, if you witness something unjust or inappropriate, don’t hesitate to speak up. Ensure your approach remains respectful and professional when addressing any issues.

Navigating office politics can undoubtedly be a challenge, but it’s not impossible. By following these tips, you can avoid getting caught up in the drama and gossip, and you can use office politics to your advantage.

6. Keep detailed records

In case you face situations where your work is not properly credited or acknowledged, keep detailed records of your contributions. Inform your colleagues and supervisors about your ongoing projects and the steps you’re taking. This documentation can protect you from anyone attempting to take credit for your work or challenging your contributions to the team. Having documented evidence of your productivity can easily substantiate your claims if they are ever questioned.