Seniors Site

Overcoming Office Politics

Office politics is no joke and it is not exclusive to the younger society as well. Seniors can also encounter these problems even if they are not asking for it. No matter how you stay humble and efficient when it comes to handling jobs, it can arise at most unfortunate times. The only advantage we, seniors, may have is that we are more experienced to handle these kinds of situation especially if we have been in the workforce for only God knows when!

Office politics is one of the many workplace stressors. It usually occurs when something new happens to the office’s structure, such as when an aggressive newbie comes in and has been an instant favorite of the superiors for whatever reason. It can create a lot of stress to the existing work structure and can seriously affect those who have been working harmoniously prior to the change. On the other hand, office politics can exist even before you get hired which only makes it harder for you to blend in.

Upon detection, we must not attempt to change anything because we risk losing our job all the more. Unless you are ready to get fired, the best thing to do is to divert your attention to yourself so you can adequately protect your being for what it’s worth.

·    Be wise. Let’s face it, when your superiors chose to shower someone with lots of love, there’s not much you can do. While it’s most appealing to just fight back, it is not very healthy for your career. If the situation is somewhat manageable then let them be. If you cannot take it anymore, then drop the job like a hot potato. Either way, there’s no need to fuss about it unless you prefer to look like a jealous lover.
·    It’s funny how office politics can easily turn a good employee to one unproductive being. This is because conflicts like this can cause unwanted diversion, no matter how much you choose to ignore them. If you’re the victim then it’s time to put the blinders on and just continue doing your job.
·    Know when to back off. Backing off does not make you a coward, it’s a strategy best learned by winners. Instead, focus on making things done so there will be no loose ends on your part.
·    ..and shut up. There’s nothing worse than bitching around and spreading gossip about someone you don’t like. The lesser you speak, the more you are handling the situation well. Plus, it eliminates the possibility of you being torn between two opposing bodies.
·    Don’t take it personally. You don’t control other people’s action, what you can only control is your own. Instead of taking everything personally, opt to take a mindset that is business-like. You don’t need these people hindering your success.
·    If, for some reason, you’re unable to fully detach yourself from office politics, then try a different approach. Since you wish to be taken personally, why not make friends with the opposition and try to understand where this person is coming from. Next, try to make it more productive for both of you and work towards it. It’s called compromising.