Understanding Office Politics

dumblittleman.com: "Many people say they hate their job because they don't like office politics. Not all office politics are bad and my assumption is that they don't like is negative office politics, such as gossip or sabotage... once you understand that politics within an office is unavoidable, instead of wasting your time "hating office politics," why not, instead, learn the rules that will make it work for you?"

Here's a summary of the key suggestions this article has for "gaming" office politics:

• Cozy Up to Detractors
• Don't Gossip
• Always Be Positive About Others
• Play Dumb and Busy to Keep Out of Toxic Conversations
• If You Want People to Help You, Understand Their Needs First
• Before Engaging in Political Battle, Know How Much Power You Have
• Grow Your Power Base Strategically Over Time
• Work Hard, But Look for Ways to Partner with Others
• Don't Look for Immediate Reciprocation
• Integrity: Be Positive, Be Kind, Be Honest, Be Realistic, Be Professional