4 common causes of office politics

“Office politics” can be defined as the use of real OR perceived power and control to get what you want, whether tangible (a raise, corner office, etc.) or intangible (a promotion, visibility , influence over others) sometimes at the expense of others. This definition drives home the fact that office politics is unavoidable.

What organization doesn’t have a hierarchy of some kind? What company has no managers, supervisors, presidents, CEOs, etc. who wield any authority? 90 percent of our newsletter recipients and other respondents in a survey on the subject admitted to being aware of office policies in their organization. Many of them also admitted that they knew of conflicts in the organization caused by office politics.

4 Common Causes of Negative Office Policies

1. Lack of sources – There are not enough resources for everyone and everyone wants to get “their share”. This often leads to backstabbing and tampering to varying degrees.

two. Extremely competitive work environment – Performance not only based on production, skill or ability but mainly on “winning” from an individual non-organizational perspective. Work relationships are often sabotaged and rampant burnout occurs due to the high level of competition.

3. An inordinate desire to advance in an organization. – Wanting to ascend not only for merit but also for the need to have a “title” or specific position.

Four. Abuse of power to manipulate others – Using a position of authority to manipulate others by any means.

Navigating the terrain of negative office politics can be daunting, but knowing exactly what it is really about can give you an idea of ​​how to respond.