Large or small, multinational or family-owned, public,
private or third sector – every workplace has ‘office politics’ in one form or
another. Some HR practitioners might consider office politics a subject best
avoided through fear of becoming too in others “games”. Their current role is
more often likely to be passive – either accepting or ignoring what’s
happening - rather than helping others to understand more about power and
politics. We believe, however, that HR practitioners could be in an ideal
position to help others understand how organizations truly work.
A role for HR?
Becoming more adept at office politics is a
journey which involves individuals developing a better understanding of power
and influence and how these can be deployed to good effect in organizational
life. HR professionals could support this exploratory journey by helping
colleagues across the business reframe the way they see politics. An important
first step is for HR professionals to recognize themselves that politics are
part of organizational life and that it is possible to have a sense of
integrity about what you do and to use your political awareness and network
positively.
The following five tips will help HR people begin to
develop a better understanding of office politics.
1. Accept that office politics exist - You might envy those who sail through each day putting in little effort but still seem to rise up the ladder of your organization. The fact is, that to ensure your progress, you have to play the game, and office politics is here to stay. You can’t ignore it: to win a game, you have to be part of it. And, don’t forget it CAN be positive for all!
1. Accept that office politics exist - You might envy those who sail through each day putting in little effort but still seem to rise up the ladder of your organization. The fact is, that to ensure your progress, you have to play the game, and office politics is here to stay. You can’t ignore it: to win a game, you have to be part of it. And, don’t forget it CAN be positive for all!
2. Understand your organization -
To move ahead in any organization you must understand its structure, its
position on contentious issues and its goals for the future. Learn who the
influencers are and where the organization’s priorities lie. Knowing this will
help you distinguish the most important people to “cultivate” and also the
correct way to respond in the best interests for you and your organization.
3. Influence your outcomes - If
you’re trying to sell an idea that is radical, new or controversial, it is
advisable to have the majority of decision-makers on your side before you
begin. Otherwise, you could run the risk of failure or of damaging your
reputation. Persuading the most influential stakeholders to your point of view
will help you influence others.
4. Behave ethically at all times - Stay
on the straight and narrow. There is a fine line between what is ethical and
what is not. Dirt sticks, so the best way to protect your reputation is to
avoid trouble in the first place. Again, make sure you know where the organization
stands and in what direction it is moving. Always ask yourself: “If they knew
my plans, would they let me proceed?” If they can see you are doing it for the
benefit of the organization, then some would say that is an ethical approach.
5. Promote your accomplishments - Be proud of your accomplishments. Make sure that your own efforts are recognized and noted by those who matter. Although it might feel uncomfortable, there is nothing wrong with advertising your success. So, watch how others do it, learn their techniques and find out which form of self-promotion works best for you. If more attention was paid to understanding and recognizing issues of power and influence within organizations, politics would look less like a maze and more like a beautiful English country garden – inviting, uplifting and of benefit to all.
#rahulinvision
5. Promote your accomplishments - Be proud of your accomplishments. Make sure that your own efforts are recognized and noted by those who matter. Although it might feel uncomfortable, there is nothing wrong with advertising your success. So, watch how others do it, learn their techniques and find out which form of self-promotion works best for you. If more attention was paid to understanding and recognizing issues of power and influence within organizations, politics would look less like a maze and more like a beautiful English country garden – inviting, uplifting and of benefit to all.
#rahulinvision
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