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Politics are an integral part of the world of work, with intrigue taking place in all organizations, big and small. Getting promoted or even keeping your job during turbulent times is based as much on loyalty to supervisors and being politically astute as it is on performance. Staying out of the game is not an option. African Americans who want to survive and thrive must learn how to play and master this game.
Tips for Mastering Office Politics
- Since promotions and corporate survival are largely based on loyalty, it's best to identify where the power resides in your company and select the winning side. If possible, determine how to work in connection with that department.
- In the game of office politics, negative stereotyping of African Americans can have a devastating effect on how fast and far you will go. Be aware that acceptable behavior for your white colleagues may be perceived differently (even negatively) when you act similarly.
- High visibility is important for African Americans in the workplace, because employees tend to obtain rewards not specifically as a result of accomplishments or high performance, but because those in power are made aware of certain employees.
- While it's natural to want to socialize with other African Americans, exclusively doing so will not only portray you as a poor team player, but will also cause you to miss out on opportunities to develop key alliances. Managers tend to view office cliques as detrimental to teamwork and feel they undermine their authority.
- By cultivating alliances and mentors in high places, you can learn some of the unwritten company rules.
- The better your relationship with your boss, the better your chances of moving up in your place of employment are. When your boss is out of favor, it's best to establish friends and allies outside his immediate line of authority.
- Never criticize coworkers behind their backs, because your comments are likely to get back to them and can create unnecessary enemies.
- Avoid getting involved with conflict in the workplace, because it is very easy to get labeled as someone who does not get along with others.
- It is important to attend company social functions; otherwise your absences will be noted and may lead others to conclude you're not a team player. If company socializing doesn't appeal to you, make a brief appearance and leave early.
- Use the grapevine to keep abreast of what is going on in the company. Identify who knows information before it is officially released. While there's usually a lot of truth to interoffice rumors, assess the value of what you have heard before you take action.
- One of the best ways to develop allies is to offer your assistance or resources to coworkers. This not only creates strong bonds, but also makes others feel obliged to help when you need their involvement to promote an idea. Asking for coworkers' contributions or participation will make them more supportive of you.
- Your success in the business arena is largely influenced by the image you project. As an African American, it is very important to learn how to develop a balance between your personal style, your heritage and the company dress code. Conforming to company dress codes shows management you are a part of the team and you understand what is expected. While asserting your ethnic identity may give you a sense of independence, it will send management the wrong message and may cost you promotions and key assignments.
- Temper your views concerning religion and politics to avoid alienating potential allies.
Career success is not just about talent. If you want your career to thrive, work to establish credibility, gain allies with influence, stay visible and gain an understanding of the culture.
