Corporate Politics

Politics. No matter where we go, there is no escaping it. Politics comes in many forms and it all usually start from one main cause. Being at the giving end is as bad as being on the receiving end. Therefore, the best thing to do in a such a case is not to be involved in it at all.

Lets say that "the perfect world" do exist. What would be seen as perfect in the business world?? People would receive fair salaries. Get promoted for being productive. Have a fair share of desirable/undesirable tasks. This would all sound perfect in a sense. However, the cruel truth is that, there is no such a paradise.

In the real world, we are to work hard for the things we desire. And sometimes, things do not always go as planned and we do not get rewarded for the things we do. people taking credit for the things you did. They get praises while you hid in the shadows not knowing what to do next. As compared to "the perfect world", the real world is a dog-eat-dog world out here. So how can we survive the cruel working world?

1. Being Visible - Make sure that people see you getting your hands dirty. In the good kind of way of course. Be the one that handles all the difficult projects, lend a helping hand, be a knowledgeable source etc.
2. VIPs - these are the people who does not give up. the one to take the first step and also the one who take the initiative.
3. Peer & Subordinates - Be there to help those that are in need, exchange favors (i scratch your back, you scratch mine), ask for advice, listens to others problems, etc.
4. The Big Boss - Sizing and getting on the bosses side, covering your bosses bloopers, active listener, etc.

Why does Politics Exist?

There are various factors that could lead to the rise of politics. These factors include:

1. Craving For Power - It's a normal human need. People lust for power and always desire more than they can chew. In their bid for power, they would take down anything and everything in their way.
2. Hunger For Acceptance - People want to feel that they belong. therefore, they join groups/cliques to make allies. With allies, comes enemies. Even within cliques, politics might exist.
   
3. Emotional Insecurities - Some people might feel insecure about themselves as they lack self-confidence
   
4. Imitating Power Holder - Other might think that they are playing it safe by imitating higher management. However, in other people's eyes, they might think otherwise.
   
5. Win-Lose Philosophy - any one/groups gain is at the expense of another.

These factors mentioned above could ruin the working life of an individual or group. It could highly likely jeopardize the state of the company. So how are we supposed to counter those factors to save both the employers and the employees? Here are some guideline on how we could avoid or counter the problem at hand.

1. Power Analysis - Recognize the power players in your department or industry. Once you have identified them, try your hardest to get on their good side. By doing so, you will be seen to have an influence and promise.
   
2. Boss - Know your bosses likes and dislikes. also learn to size up your boss. To do so, you will have to get to know them better through communication and interaction.
3. Co-worker - Try to get along with majority of your colleagues. Even if you despise them, you still have to try to get through to them. Anyways, you are going to see them literally everyday.
   
4. Lower Rank - As far as possible, try to win the support and trust of those people working for you. To do so, offer them a helping hand and listen actively to all their problems and try to solve their problems to satisfy their needs.
   
5. Boosting Careers - This is solely dependent on how much you want it. You will have to shine at meetings, display proper business etiquette, showing interest and enthusiasm in your work, etc.
   
6. Unfair Politics - One man's achievement could make another feel jealous and envy. Be wary of all these characters. Make sure you know who to trust and be mindful of who you hang out with.

6.1. Defending yourself against unfair politics:
- Confront people with their political games.
- Expose their dirty tricks.
- Stop people from bad-mouthing.
- Circulate your ideas.
- Confront by-passers.






Other problems within the organization might just arise. To name a few are Office Romances and Harassment.

There is no denying that in our working life, there are days by which we all get bored. When that happens, our minds begin to wander and many kinds of thought might run through our minds. We might begin to see our colleagues as objects of desire, lust and beauty. From there feelings towards the other colleague might build up. This applies for both the men and women. Here is a piece of advice. Do not let feelings and emotions fill you up in the office area. It could only lead to a major disaster. It distracts us from our work and also it might raise a suspicion of unfair treatment. Therefore, the right and honorable thing to do is not to get involved in any form of office romance.

Sexual Harassment. This is a serious issue that is on the rise especially in the business world. Again, this issue affects both the men and women. Sexual harassment comes in many shapes and sizes. it could be between the opposite sexes or even of the same sex. The video that is posted below will show you of the different forms of harassment and how they are carried out. Below the video are some suggestions on how we can deal with the situation in the most appropriate manner possible.

So how do we react to those kind of harassment displayed above? Here are some helpful tips to help you to counter and act against those harassment issues:

• Be frank. Tell the person that his/her actions are offensive.
• Document and keep track of all his /her actions against you.
• Contact people who you think might be of usefulness to help you deal with the matter.
• Report the matter to a higher authority figure.
• Seek counseling if needed.

So be wary of your surroundings. Keep a watchful eye over yourself and also your friends. This is a very serious issue that needs to be dealt with seriously and promptly. Be it in school or in your workplace, politics, harassment, etc are bound to happen and it most probably will. As far as possible try to keep it on a minimal level so that it would no affect you and your closest friends/family members. Use all the advice give above to help and facilitate you in achieving a happy and friendly work environment.

"Know who you can trust before making acquaintance"

"Keep your friends close. Keep your enemies closer"