after-class writing homework

Office politics. It’s a term used to describe the power rules of the workplace. Who gets the best workspace, special attention from management, or the most plum assignments? That has a lot to do with talent and competence, but it may also have to do with politics. Office politics affect virtually every workplace. Even if you choose to ignore the politics where you work, chances are that you’ll still be affected by them from time to time. Here are some tips on understanding and navigating workplace politics.

Workplace politics can be both positive and negative. The negatives, such as favoritism, excluding others, gossip, and backstabbing, can be damaging and distracting. But workplace politics can also be positive, uniting teams of people to achieve common goals that also benefit the organization. Here are three important things to keep in mind about workplace politics:

1.It’s important to learn about the politics in your workplace. Many people make the mistake of completely ignoring workplace politics. While you may prefer to steer clear of politics, it’s still important to understand the role they play in your workplace. Being unaware can make you appear disinterested and unknowledgeable -- and may leave you vulnerable.

2.Be an observer. This will help you understand the politics in your workplace. Observe which behaviors help people succeed. Try to figure out who is influential in your organization and what makes them that way. Ask your manager or a mentor to help you understand the politics in your workplace as well. Discuss the behaviors that tend to set successful people apart.

3.Let honesty and integrity guide you. Office politics can often seem unfair, but you can choose to rise above and act with professionalism. Remember that while some people clamor ruthlessly for the top and will do anything to get

there, honesty and fairness will help you succeed personally and professionally.

Successfully navigating the politics in your workplace

Here are 10 tips to help you navigate politics in your workplace:

1.

the expense of teamwork. Work collaboratively with other team members and departments. That’s the guiding rule of a great politician.

2.

Badmouthing can make you look bad, and negative comments can come back to haunt you later. If you have a problem with a co-worker, talk with her directly and privately. Talking behind someone’s back only makes matters worse.

3.

others look good and feel good is good politics and it makes you look good as well.

Stay the extra time it takes to help a co-worker finish an important project. Send a congratulatory e-mail to a co-worker about a job well done -- and copy his manager.

4.

don’t have to participate in gossip to benefit from the grapevine. Closing your mouth and opening your ears allows you to stay up-to-date about what’s going on in your organizati on without contributing negative energy.

5.

difficult or confidential issues in person or over the phone. Never send an e-mail you wouldn’t want others to read.

6.

may need to collaborate or exchange favors down the road.

7.

your reputation in a way that is natural for you. If ingratiating yourself isn’t your style but