Workplace Politics for People Who Don’t Play Games
Getting ahead at work is hard enough without all the drama and gossip. While it’s oh-so-tempting to get involved in the chatter (hey, it makes you feel included, right?), it can actually hurt your chances at a promotion or raise. Here’s why and how to avoid it…
Exit the Conversation
If you chime in on that private group text thread to complain and vent, be very careful that it doesn’t lead to gossip. While you probably have a group of peers that feel your exact pains and frustrations, you’re leaving a paper trail and a wake of negativity behind you.
It takes just one text thread partner in crime to leak your convo - and that can land you in hot water… even get you fired.
Plus, it creates an Us and Them dynamic that seeps into other areas of work, can color projects or initiatives, and lead to workplace permafrost (everything, everything gets covered in a chilly layer of negativity). You’ll never be happy or satisfied at work again.
This isn’t to say that you should always be positive nor should you feel like you can’t vocalize your concerns. That’s even worse. I’m talking about actual, real-life Oh my god, Becky, look at her butt level and beyond. You know, the stuff that you assume, have no proof of, or heard from someone else.
If office games have you wondering if there is a bright future for you at your company, the workbook / field guide Move On or Move Up may just help you decide. Download your free copy to start planning your next big move.
You’re the Safe Space
Separating yourself from the drama with a personal policy solidifies you as a professional. Since others don’t hear you talk about coworkers behind their backs, they’ll feel safe confiding in you. And that energy radiates left, right, up, and down the ladder.
Another perk of not subscribing to goss is that act of venting becomes productive. Instead of spiraling into darker and moodier territory with normal gossip, productive conversations end on a higher note and with you having a clear direction and support.
Sometimes you just need to vent, sure, but what if you could problem-solve, strategize, and dream build with fellow badasses? You and the other people involved will feel empowered, seen, and validated.
It’s the Pro Move
You’re not immune from gossip just because you don’t partake in the archaic ritual. While others will always form their own opinions of you, coming to peace with the fact that you control only your own actions, no one else’s will serve you well.
People move titles and roles all the time. Who was once your report is now your boss. A director took a step down and is now in a different department. It’s a game of corporate Twister. You never know who will end up where and have what kind of authority.
When you celebrate peers’ contributions, are straightforward and kind with critique, and are always looking for the most productive angle, that’s a vibe that follows you. Huge brownie points when you’re looking to add some zeros on your paycheck or move an important project forward.
Final Thoughts
The cliff notes are: Gossip can damage your reputation just as much as it does someone else’s. Finding ways to avoid it, side-step it, or straight-up just shut it down does everyone good. In its place, you can water the seedlings of trust, support, and growth.
Knowing whether there’s too much drama to be worthwhile is a complicated thing to wade through. If you could use a hand deciding if it’s time to move on or move up, your first step is to download the workbook (totally free - straight to your inbox.)