Work Related Issues

Avoiding office politics

The "back office" refers to the operations or day to day workings of an office. It is the part of your working world that customers and clients do not get to see or participate in. The back office can be consumed with office politics, especially when people are trying to further their own careers, build alliances or feel superior to other co-workers. Whether you are a manager seeking to maintain credibility and influence or an employee who wishes to remain productive and professional, office politics can be damaging. Avoid back office politics by staying out of the gossip and game playing and standing up for a functional and respectful work environment.

1. Be yourself :-. Do not try to impress co-workers by talking about others or backstabbing when that is not your nature.

2. Determine which co-workers play office politics:-It will not take you long to identify the culprits. Once you do, stay away from those people except when you have legitimate business to discuss.

3. Walk away when necessary:-If a work-related discussion turns into rumours or scheming, simply remove yourself from the situation. Try to bring the discussion back to the work-related topic if you can.

4. Prepare yourself for politics and power plays:-Even if you are not involved in office politics, they can affect you. Stay on top of your work so that no one will have a reason to question your motivations, or work product. Make sure all your work is complete and accurate. Keep yourself focused on your job.

5. Stay positive:-A positive attitude and commitment to work can be frustrating and bewildering for those who prefer to engage in office politics. Try not to criticize others, even if you find their gossip and politics unprofessional and disruptive.

6. Set a good example:-. Your supervisors will likely notice your success at avoiding politics and staying focused. This will help your career grow.