Unsurprisingly “office politics” are seen as unhealthy and synonymous with individuals pushing their agendas for personal gain, self-aggrandisement or empire-building. However, as per the HBR article: “Office Politics is just Influence by another name”.
To give but one example, well-intentioned and careful politics can have a hugely positive impact – think of William Wilberforce and his 20-year struggle to abolish the slave trade in the British domain. That was pure politics with a very clear unselfish motive.
In a business context, failing to play legitimate politics could lead to a lack of impact – being effective in an organisation requires using influence and persuasion to have your ideas heard. The more of a leadership role you have, the more your role will depend on effective influence. One definition of Leadership is “Getting things done through influence”.
However, it’s not easy. Consider the ‘Owl, Fox, Donkey, Sheep’ model of behaviour. A two-by-two matrix with political awareness on the vertical axis and alignment with the organisation on the other.
Which of us wants to be Donkey or Sheep with poor ‘political’ skills?
None. Yet I’ve found myself there too often, or it’s easy to end up perceived as the cunning fox by not keeping your motivations open and authentic.
Learning the best influencing skills takes time, and keeping yourself on the right-hand side of the picture may mean addressing blind spots. Both skills take practice, and feedback will help – it’s an ideal challenge to tackle with a coach, for example.
What should we do:
- Ensure your motives are aligned with positive change for the organisation
- Be open to ensure others can see and share your motivations
- Widen your circle of associates and friends in the organisation
- Learn what it takes to use influence to promote your ideas
- Aspire to be the wise owl regardless of other people’s behaviour