Shielding the Team from Office Politics

I’ve worked on projects in Client sites, where office politics felt like a storm raging around us.

There were power struggles, hidden agendas, and endless finger-pointing.

That’s when I realized that my biggest job wasn’t just scheduling tasks.

It was standing tall and blocking those toxic crossfires so my team could work in peace.

I remember a moment when two executives argued over budget cuts.

My team was stuck in the middle. Instead of letting it tear us apart, I stepped in and offered to facilitate a private meeting.

I kept the conversation focused on goals rather than blame.

By calming the tension, I shielded my team from the blowback.

Being the shield also means noticing small warning signs.

If I see a manager rolling their eyes in a meeting or a coworker muttering under their breath, I check in.

That early intervention saves bigger issues later.

Look at your own team.

Is there tension brewing or a quiet complaint you’ve brushed aside?

Take a moment to step in.

Ask questions.

Listen.

By acting early, you’ll protect your project—and your people.