Office Politics & HR


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! 





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


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