I have long maintained that there is such a thing as “positive” office politics. “Bah!” You say with skepticism. “No such thing.” Here’s my counter-argument: there’s nothing inherently wrong with people who use power and status, but it’s the way in which they use it that gives office politics its bad name. It’s those “people…
Workplace Dynamics
5 Tips for Building Your Superhero Power at Work
When we were kids, all it took was donning a beach towel cape and running through the neighborhood to make us feel strong and competent. A simple garment addition and voila! We were superheroes. Then, we grew up and went to work. At your place of employment, you might be less inclined to feel the superhero…
Developing Your (Office) Political Savvy – Positively
When you hear the phrase “office politics,” what comes to mind? Do you imagine: Favoritism Back-stabbing “Makes me want to run and hide” Cronyism Self-interest It’s not a pretty list, is it? Whenever I talk with people about “office politics” their viewpoints have a negative theme associated with them. These words represent the dark side…
The Perfect Corporate Culture Doesn’t Exist
Have you ever noticed how pervasive “perfection” is in our language? The phrase “perfect storm” is used to describe a “rare combination of circumstances will aggravate a situation drastically.” Baseball pitchers strive for throwing a “perfect” game We describe something we think is beautiful as “picture perfect” Two people who have never met before are…
How To Accept an Apology at Work
Has anyone ever said anything to you at work that was really hurtful or snarky? It’s an experience we can all relate to. Sometimes it’s an intentional slight or power-play. But here’s the thing. More often, it’s an unplanned quip and your colleague wishes they could take it back. There are a couple of different…