Corporate politics is the informal power structure that exists within an organization. It is the way that people interact with each other to achieve their goals, and it can play a significant role in career advancement. While corporate politics can sometimes be seen as negative, it is important to understand that it is a normal part of the workplace. By understanding the dynamics of corporate politics and developing strategies for navigating them, professionals can increase their chances of success.
The following are critical tips for navigating corporate politics in the workplace:
- Understand the lay of the land. The first step to navigating corporate politics is to understand the informal power structure of your organization. Who are the key decision-makers? Who has the ear of the CEO? Who is respected by their peers? Once you have a good understanding of the power dynamics, you can start to develop relationships with the right people.
- Build relationships. Relationships are key to success in corporate politics. Get to know your colleagues, both inside and outside of your department. Attend social events, volunteer for committees, and offer to help others. By building strong relationships, you will create a network of support that can help you achieve your goals.
- Be visible. Make sure that your accomplishments are known to your superiors and colleagues. This doesn't mean bragging or self-promoting, but it does mean being willing to share your successes and participate in meetings and discussions. When you are visible, you are more likely to be considered for promotions and other opportunities.
- Be a team player. Even if you have ambitious goals, it is important to be a team player. Be willing to help others and support your team's success. This will show your superiors that you are a valuable asset to the team and that you are committed to the company's goals.
- Be ethical. It is important to navigate corporate politics in an ethical way. Be honest and trustworthy in your dealings with others. Avoid gossiping or backstabbing. If you have a concern, raise it directly with the person involved or with your supervisor.
When it comes to dealing with colleagues who try to use corporate politics to bring you down, David Dotlich and Jeffrey Pfeffer offer practical advice in their books, 'The Essential Guide to Navigating Corporate Politics', and 'Corporate Politics: How to Win and Keep Power in the Workplace, respectively:
Of course, this can be challenging, but it is important to remember that you are not alone. Many professionals have to deal with this type of behavior at some point in their careers. Here are some tips for dealing with colleagues who try to use corporate politics against you:
- Stay calm and professional. It can be tempting to react emotionally when someone is trying to bring you down, but it is important to stay calm and professional. This will show your colleagues that you are not easily rattled and that you are confident in your abilities.
- Document their behavior. If your colleague is engaging in unethical or unprofessional behavior, document it. This could include keeping a log of their actions, saving emails or text messages, or asking witnesses to corroborate your story. If you need to report your colleague to your supervisor or HR department, having documentation will be essential.
- Don't sink to their level. It may be tempting to retaliate against your colleague, but this is not a good idea. It will only make the situation worse and make you look bad. Instead, focus on doing your job well and building relationships with your colleagues.
- Build a strong network of support. Having a strong network of support is essential for dealing with difficult colleagues. Surround yourself with positive people who believe in you and who can offer you support and advice.
- Seek help from your supervisor or HR department. If your colleague's behavior is having a negative impact on your work or your mental health, don't be afraid to seek help from your supervisor or HR department. They can help you to address the situation and to protect yourself from further harm.
Navigating corporate politics can be challenging, but it is an important skill for any professional who wants to advance in their career. By understanding the dynamics of corporate politics and developing strategies for navigating them, professionals can increase their chances of success.
Check out my Udemy Course on Modern Internal Audit Leadership, which covers corporate politics as it applies to Internal Auditors and our daily quest to build strong relationships in the workplace.
- Harvard Business Review: How to Navigate Corporate Politics
- Forbes: How to Navigate Corporate Politics and Advance Your Career
- Inc.: The Essential Guide to Navigating Corporate Politics
- LinkedIn: How to Navigate Corporate Politics and Succeed in Your Career
- CareerBuilder: How to Navigate Corporate Politics and Win
- The Essential Guide to Navigating Corporate Politics by David Dotlich
- Corporate Politics: How to Win and Keep Power in the Workplace by Jeffrey Pfeffer
