The Truth About Office Politics

Playing office politics can be daunting; however, it is essential to getting ahead. Learning to play the game sooner than later with fewer mistakes, will often mean quicker advancement. Here are some easy tips to sucking up to the right people, staying away from the wrong ones, and your guide to gossip.

Flying Under the Radar

Flying under the radar is a good tactic when you're new at a company. You certainly don't want the important people to know who you are for the wrong reasons. Seeming meek yet dedicated is the persona to put forth. Do not confuse this with subduing your productivity. The idea is to not be overtly personable. You don't want to rub anyone the wrong way until they realize it would be difficult to replace you. Just keep it cool, quiet, and diligent for the first few months.

Making the Right Friends

Making the right friends within your office is key to how you will be perceived by others. Of course, those who are friendly with the top brass are always a good place to start, however, don't be afraid to be chummy with the little people.

Of all the people in your office, be wary of those who tell you "I heard" stories. You will know who these people are quickly as they can't help but to start most conversations with, "Oh my gosh, I heard..." These co-workers usually get the people they speak of in trouble, or they themselves get in trouble for spreading unsubstantiated rumors. If you want to avoid being the subject of one of their rumors, best to stay away.

Sometimes, staying away from the gossipers is unavoidable. Always be friendly with those you will have to work with, even those who gossip. Just remember not to tell them something you don't want anyone else to know. My two favorite phrases in business are, "If you have nothing nice to say, don't say anything at all" and "You can catch more flies with honey, than vinegar." Both are fantastic mantras to play office politics by.

Your Time to Shine

Once you've settled in and start learning the ropes, it's a safe bet that you can start to be yourself a little more. Understanding who the people are in your office is important in order to be able to meld your personality with theirs. Always look around someone's office. You'll often be able to tell by nick knacks and pictures what is important to them. Keep in mind that someone who seems religious probably won't appreciate your "a nun, rabbi and a priest walk into a bar" joke. Alternatively, your co-worker that moonlights as a club DJ will probably find that joke funny. You should always play to your strengths as well as theirs.

Let your work do the talking. Always accept praise however, don't get cocky. Your co-workers will resent you and your boss will find it repulsive. Remain humble and appreciative and your boss will be more likely to recommend you for projects that come up within the company.

Always Look Busy

Every minute of your eight hours at work can't possibly be filled with work related tasks; however, your boss as well as co-workers must believe that you are always working. Desk clean up, organization, and special projects not otherwise requested by your boss should be done in this time.

Allowing your co-workers to see you playing solitaire or surfing the net is worse than your boss seeing, simply because your co-workers will always be jealous and will always want what you have. It's much better to never arm them with ammunition.

At the End of the Day

This may be seen as a cynical approach to work place behaviors; however, I think it is just human nature. Office politics have been part of the corporate environment for years. You must cater to each personality in order to assure your success. If you want to be successful in your position, you must watch your back as well as your boss's. He/She will appreciate the loyalty and will be more likely to return the favor.