October is National Workplace Politics Awareness Month
Politics are played everywhere, including the workplace, churches, community organizations, even children’s sports.
Some people are strategic, which can sometimes turn into manipulation. Others are competitive, controlling, insecure or have a huge ego.
Listed are a few common types of workplace politics:
- favoritism
- exclusion.
- information hoarding.
- fake alliances.
Here are three multiple choice real-life scenarios:
1. A coworker takes credit for your work:
a. Call them out at the meeting, exposing their limited contribution.
b. Calmly add, “I’m glad you brought it up, Tony. I appreciate your assistance with this project.”
2. A coworker intentionally withholds information:
a. Politely approach them, saying “I just found out about “X”, would you remember to keep me in the loop next time. Thanks.”
b. Create your own clique.
3. The opportunistic coworker:
a. Next time they approach you with their woe-is-me issue or request for another favor, say, “Wow, haven’t seen you since you needed a favor last week!” Sassy, but maybe they’ll recognize their intentions.
b. Before they speak, say “Sorry, I can’t talk now. I’ve got a lot I’m focusing on. Why don’t you try John.” Passing them onto another coworker is a little questionable.
4 Ways to Pick Up on the Political Players.
If workplace politics is standard procedure, you can try to change it or accept it and learn how to maneuver around it.
1. Observe who prioritizes popping in and out of everyone’s cubicle instead of getting the job done.
2. Observe who keeps quiet when it counts. Suddenly, they know nothing.
3. Set and enforce boundaries. Politely discourage gossip. Avoid taking sides.
4. Document your work; include meetings, names and notes.
Final Thoughts
Relationships that develop quickly, without learning about each others ethics first, can surprisingly end or turn on you. Gladly, there are some workplace relationships that develop into lifelong friendships, even marriages.
The above etiquette tips are general, subject to interpretation, specific circumstances, and personal perspective. There are always more options. If your concern is ongoing and/or escalating, seek professional assistance from a trusted source.
Business Etiquette Training: Communication skills, social skills, picking up on social cues, office gossip…
Contact me to discuss how we can work together by providing a customized workshop for your staff. Workshop are available for youth, high school, college students, community organizations, sales team, actors, athletes attending fundraisers, general professional development, to support Code of Conduct, to support implementing new employee standards in 2025.
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