Articles

February 2006: Manage This … Political Savvy

Be more politically savvy at work.

Most people cringe at the thought of “being political” because they associate it with back-stabbing, cronyism and manipulation for personal gain. But that’s just a cynical view. At a recent talk, I was asked for the single best piece of advice for women. My answer (which applies to both genders) was that working hard isn’t enough. You need to be political, in a positive way.

Two positive and beneficial components of being politically savvy are: 1) having a strong network; and, 2) understanding the power of “WIIFM.”

Entrepreneurs have to learn the value of a network. But many people who are focused on succeeding within a corporation don’t consider the value of networking. It’s easy to become so overwhelmed with work that you forget to foster relationships, the basis of networking. But stay connected to a wide variety of people, inside and outside your organization. Those connections can lead to promotions, valuable assignments, support around ideas and new initiatives, and job opportunities.

This is not negative politics. It is simple human nature. Keep in touch with everyone that you have made a positive connection with in a work setting. Then, make sure that you reach out to them on a regular basis. It doesn’t have to be extensive. For some it could be as simple as a holiday card, for others more frequent contact.

WIIFM stands for “What’s In It For Me.” Consciously or unconsciously, everyone views opportunity in those terms. So when you are presenting something, focus on what’s in it for your audience. For example, if you are launching a new product, how do you get support from other departments? How will Sales benefit (more commission). How will Manufacturing benefit (an opportunity to try something new). How will the overall company benefit. Similarly, whenever there is a conflict between two individuals or departments, try to see it from the other person’s perspective: what’s in it for them to continue the conflict; what’s in it for them to resolve it?

By understanding the benefits of being politically savvy and knowing some ways to improve yours, it can greatly enhance your career and make your job easier.

To learn more specific ways how to become more politically savvy, contact Halmi Performance Consulting (kerrie@halmiperformance.com or 510-336-0654) to receive one-on-one coaching or training.

Manage This … the March edition will discuss focusing on the positives at work. Research shows it makes good business sense. More details right here on the second Monday in March.

Please feel free to call or write with questions or comments. I welcome your feedback.

Please pass this to others who would benefit from it.

If you want specific references for any of the material, please let me know.

Manage This … is a monthly eZine by Kerrie Halmi, Halmi Performance Consulting. Visit www.halmiperformance.com.