Whether you are just starting your first job or your 10th job, you will find that office politics is consistent in all companies. Office politics is something that is inherent in any company you may work for. It's part of the culture and you won't be able to avoid it. So just how do you survive office politics and still get to make your talents shine? Simple, you need to market your talents everyday, just as you did during the interview that got you the job.
You basically need to focus on fitting in with the scheme of things around the office. Be friendly and outgoing and offer support to your co-workers and management when possible. Refuse to engage in the sleazier side of office politics and soon management and your peers will take notice of you. You will win their support and respect.
Don't be afraid to toot your own horn to management. Don't assume that they should know what you do all day. They have their own agenda and may take notice of some things that you do, but many things may go unnoticed. Your positive attitude and activities will rally support and leave a lasting impression to everyone.
It's ok to offer to take on additional responsibilities, but only do it if you have the time or someone else hasn't stepped up to the plate. Don't bite off more than you can chew, it will make matters worse and make you look incompetent. The trick is to show that you are worth more and soon you will not only fit in, but also come to be relied on for more important assignments. You will be a player in the game of office politics, no longer an outsider looking in. An increase in responsibilities usually means a raise as well.
Playing the game of office politics well can lead to many rewards in your career. In addition to fitting in and getting personal recognition when an opportunity presents itself, you also need to accept constructive criticism just as well. Never take it personally, rather look at it as a chance to grow and learn from mistakes. If you come off as defensive when you are being criticized, it will sabotage any chance you have of becoming part of a group.
Know your limitations, toot your own horn, play by the rules, make your talents shine and most of all, respect yourself and those around you. Remember that you will not be able to please all of the people all of the time. But pleasing those that count, those in authority and those that you work closely with is equal to winning half the battle. Be subtle, make the transition as seamless as possible and make yourself useful. Only then will you have a chance at winning the war. It is the easiest way to survive office politics in any company.
Article written by Simone Emmons.
It is a trial period for a new employee and the long-term success on this new job depends on how the first few weeks or even the first month goes. So it is important that you prepare before you report to your new job.
The following tips may prove practical and valuable:
Be Punctual
Be punctual and follow the work schedule.
Report on time and don't leave even a minute before the scheduled time unless you have the permission of your boss and the situation is urgent. Know the lunch and coffee-break schedules.
Dress Appropriately
Follow the dress code, if there is one. In the absence of a prescribed dress code, make sure you wear the appropriate clothing for your position.
For example, if others in a comparable position are wearing business suits, then you should have at least three and keep them clean and well-pressed. Showing up shabbily dressed would give the impression that you have shabby work habits and skills.
Follow Instructions
Before you begin your assigned work, be clear about the instructions. Even if you have the slightest doubt, get it right from the horse's mouth.
Don't jump to conclusions and do things your own way. You don't want your new boss and fellow employees to think you are a "know-it-all."
Understand the Dynamics of the New Workplace
Whenever a new employee joins an organization or enters a new workplace, it directly or indirectly affects the dynamics of the place. Be sensitive to the dynamics of your new workplace and take your time to understand them before you settle in to your new job.
In short, appear unassuming rather than presumptuous. Don't be dragged in to any chitchat about politics or the company's management.
Make sure not to join any faction or group - and don't participate in any discussion that is tantamount to gossip.
Practice Professional Etiquette
Remember and follow the rules of professional etiquette. A pleasing and courteous demeanor will help you win friends and well-wishers in no time.
Keeping a low profile and appearing unassuming is preferable to being boisterously sociable toward your new associates.
Be Efficient
Be a diligent worker with a conscientious approach, and be sure to meet all deadlines. Never produce any work that is slipshod or sloppy. Your level of output is important but not without quality.
Pursue excellence relentlessly and practice it in all that you do.
Use Personal & Office Items Judiciously
Your family and friends may be keen to know how you are doing in your new job. However, at least in the first few weeks, discourage them from phoning you during working hours.
On the other hand, don't use office resources and gadgets like the telephone, fax machines, etc., for your personal use unless management expressly permits it.
By using the above tips, you'll be able to ensure that your new job is enjoyable - and that you are successful from the very beginning.
Both Simi & Tony Jacowski are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
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