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Talking politics at work

Politics are everywhere – especially this year – including the workplace.Though they are not often openly discussed, they exist on many levels and part of your job as a leader is to navigate work politics.


While there are many factors that drive office politics, control and influence are two. They allow more autonomy and ownership over how we do our work and what the outcomes are. Without them, we experience frustration, stress or burnout. 


Ideally you can create an environment without politics and where everyone feels heard and valued, trusted and respected. That's easier said than done. Usually at some level, there are power dynamics in organizations or within teams. 


When these are at play, it can be challenging for some, especially when you feel that you lack of influence to navigate them. This leads to frustration, and feeling disconnected and overlooked.


Have you ever heard someone reference a need to understand how to “play the game” at work? They are likely talking about managing the power dynamics at play. Workplace politics can have real impact on people and their careers, but there are attributes that leaders can develop and use to gain influence and diplomatically navigate the complexities of office politics. It requires a combination of building relationships, improving communication skills, and understanding the organizational culture. 


Connection, communication, composure, and character are key. Putting these into play can balance the power dynamics, which will strengthen your opportunity and ability to lead through challenging situations, and foster collaborative and productive work cultures.


  • Build Connections and Trust: Focus on building genuine relationships with colleagues based on trust, respect, and mutual understanding. This means getting to know them, actively seeking their input and feedback, or involving them in the decision-making process where appropriate. Trust and respect help grow your influence with people. 


  • Stay balanced and focused: While weshould be working towards common goals at a company, that doesn’t always happen. Emphasize collaboration and teamwork over individual agendas or personal ambitions. Strive to approach situations objectively, considering the broader implications for the team and organization. 


  • Keep your cool: Your composure in politically charged workplace environments impacts on how you’re perceived as a leader and your influence overall. Lean into your emotional intelligence strengths – particularly your self-awareness, empathy, and reasoning skills to help you regulate and manage your emotions when politics arise.


  • Proactive and open communication: Proactive, open and transparent communication with colleagues will help mitigate misunderstandings and rumors, which fuel office dynamics. Encourage open discussions and promptly address issues with a willingness to listen to different perspectives with empathly. It makes room for people to be heard, and allows you to diplomatically and constructively lead. 


  • Be Adaptable: In workplaces today, change is a given; dynamics will continue to evolve. Flexibility in your approach and perspectives is important. Periodically assess the environment and politics at play, and get feedback to understand how you need to adjust.


Overall, lead by example. Reflecting the above will demonstrate your character and integrity in your actions and decisions. Be a role model for fairness, honesty, and accountability, and set a positive example for your team, colleagues and organization by casting politics aside.


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