I’ve been doing some thinking about something we all encounter regularly at work, but love to hate – the nuanced dance of workplace politics. Yes, it’s that ‘P’ word that we can’t seem to escape. Politics doesn’t have to be evil, and it’s something that is essential for us to navigate as tech leaders.

Here are my 5 strategies for navigating office politics effectively:

1. Network Like It’s Your Superpower: Honestly, the more people you know, the better. I’m not just talking about the higher-ups but everyone from the intern to the gatekeeper. It’s all about embracing different viewpoints and getting the inside scoop from all corners of our little world.
2. Stakeholders? Yeah, They’re Kinda a Big Deal: Getting to know who’s who – their likes, dislikes, and what makes them tick – is like having the cheat code in a video game. It’s about making our lives a bit easier by aligning our goals with theirs, subtly but effectively.
3. Finding the Win-Win: Remember, every interaction is a chance to build bridges. I always aim for outcomes where everyone walks away feeling like they’ve gotten something they wanted. It’s about spreading good vibes and making allies along the way.
4. What’s your Unique Advantage?: Knowing what you bring to the table (and when to bring it) is like having aces up your sleeve. It could be your superpowers, your buddy from another department, or just your knack for smoothing over ruffled feathers.
5. Focus on the Goal: It’s easy to get caught up in the minutiae or the latest water cooler drama. But what’s really important? Keeping our gaze fixed on the bigger picture – our team’s goals, our personal growth, and how we can make our little corner of the world a bit better.

So, there you have it – my two cents on navigating the choppy waters of office politics without losing our souls (or our minds) in the process. I’d love to hear your thoughts or any sage wisdom you’ve picked up along the way. Hit me up anytime; my inbox is always open for a good chat.

Wishing you a week filled with savvy moves and genuine connections,

Jossie
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P.S. Remember, we’re not just playing the game; we’re rewriting the rules. Together, let’s make our workplace a space where everyone feels valued and heard. Sound like a plan? Let’s do this!
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P.P.S. Time is running out to sign up for my upcoming retreat in Oregon. With limited spots available, this retreat is an exclusive opportunity to focus on what truly matters for your career and life, at a fraction of my one-on-one coaching cost. And honestly, I’m not sure when I’ll host another retreat like this. So, if you’re even a little bit curious or ready to dive in, let’s chat! For more details, please visit: https://marayabrown.com/retreat-march2024/. Let me know any questions you might have.
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