5 ways to manage workplace politics

There will always be office politics. So for those workplace situations that aren’t quite so much fun, here are some ways to manage the negative side of politics in the workplace, courtesy of college.usatoday.com…

1. ACCEPT WORKPLACE POLITICS FOR WHAT THEY ARE

Workplace politics are strategies used by workers to gain advantages for themselves or causes they advocate.

The negative aspect of these politics however, comes when people use them to get ahead at the expense of their co-workers. This can create uncomfortable and competitive work environments, as well as conflict among colleagues.

In recognizing workplace politics for what they are, also recognize that they can work in your favour if you use them positively. Use the idea of office politics to gain favour with the boss and build strong relationships with co-workers, without hindering the processes of others.

2. BUILD BENEFICIAL RELATIONSHIPS

It is necessary to surround yourself with people you believe will keep such practices to a minimum. Evaluate your co-workers as you spend time with them to see if you can tell who might be more likely to engage negatively in politics like gossip.

By creating a strong circle of dependable co-workers at the office, you will be able to stay out of a good amount of negative politics. Steer clear of political situations in the workplace.

3. IDENTIFY PERSONALITIES AND SITUATIONS

It is also important to identify the people and personalities in the office you feel will be most conducive to causing trouble. Then you will be more alert to the possible negative influences they may have on you and your work at times when collaboration is necessary. Further, the longer you work somewhere, the more able you will be to pick up signals indicating that negative politics may soon be afoot.

4. AVOID GOSSIP

Though you will try your best to identify people and situations early on, gossip will still happen. Many people gossip without even realizing what they are doing.

Best thing to do – remain neutral. Don’t agree with negative comments, just listen to what your co-worker has to say without prompting them for more information or offering validation – then look to change the subject.

5. FOCUS ON YOU

At the end of the day, your work should be about you. Stay true to yourself and the reasons you entered the workforce in the first place, and negative office politics will seem more trivial and just ill-conceived strategies of unsatisfied employees.

Read the full article here: http://goo.gl/MLdTgA