According to Paul Valery, Politics is the art of preventing people from sticking their noses in things that are properly their business. They say politics is a dirty game but no one is ready to give it a cold shoulder. However time and again we’ve been forced to stay in the game due to the fact that politics is a lifestyle,a way of life.
Even in our offices politics has not been and exception as it is viewed to be a determinant to the competition in the race for the top office post, to attract appointment or gaining favour from the boss.
It has been a norm that everyone who thinks of surviving must engage themselves in the game otherwise you risk losing your potential opinion towards positive contribution to the organisation. The grim fact is that the less experienced personnel will have a greater platform to express her skills and knowledge to influence your powerful points. This can be destructive to both the workforce and the organisation, if tough decisions are to be made.
While positive politics can be a very sure way of ensuring the success of an organisation, it can also be destructive if not used wisely. It is worth noting that the game usually starts with a gossip and the rumour spreads like fire. With some vicious characters in the workplace, violence is likely to ensue and can see some workers fired, others with injuries and also a permanent hatred in the office. This can in the long run lead to underproduction.
It is advisable to understand the credibility of the information before you act never allow an argument arising from rumours lead to internal conflicts. When someone is on your neck take it positively without complaining. Know that you are at a workplace and your duty is to act as professional.
A professional understands positive critisms and can differentiate it with an intention. It is a time for hiding your personal garment. If you behave professionally and show integrity you become a role model and your success will surely change others perception of politics.
These politics usually stem from the workforce who lacks talent, driven by tribalism or just their nature. It is worth reviewing and understanding your colleague before acting.