Office Politics - Library Journal

Odd man out is recipe for a toxic office - TheStar.com

On the Job: Office politics may be unavoidable - Salt Lake Tribune

Don’t let office ‘drama queen’ act out to you - SunSentinel.com

Office politics ‘responsible for many IT project failures’ - ComputerWeekly.com

Gartner: Office politics kills IT projects - ZDNet

From the blogosphere…

Should one participate in office politics? - thestaton.net

Office politics - Pukhtana’s Blog

Promotion and Self-Promotion - Act for Justice

tips from the presidential campaign: how to win at office politics - Tyrashow.com

“Hypothetical scenario: I am a salaried employee of my company. If I were to leave my job (with several weeks of unused vacation time), am I losing out?? What’s the best way to come out ahead - is it to use my vacation days and have my last date of employment set after that? Or to request a payout?”

Gia,
Employers will seldom allow an employee’s resignation date to occur following 2 or 3 weeks of vacation. This “notice” period is there for completion of projects, transfer of knowledge, and allowing time for a replacement to be found without severely impacting unit productivity. By using vacation time as your notice time, you are effectively not giving any notice as it will be as if you have already left.

Vacation time can be used almost strategically. If you know (or think) you are on the verge of leaving, take a week off. Or two. If you are planning to go on an all-out aggressive job search, send out resumes and plan a week of intense interviewing (you will not need to worry about your boss wondering why you are consistently leaving the office). If you use up all your vacation time and then have a change of heart and decide to stay, hopefully you have enough Personal Time Off days to compensate (there’s the strategic implication).

All in all, unused vacation time is what you make of it. If you do not take the time off and you resign in the same vacation reference year, you are ultimately due your 4% (vacation pay) along with your final paycheque. It really depends on the individual preference when it comes to deciding what “coming out ahead” is.

Hope this helps,

Aaron

It’s an honest statement, but one most people don’t ever really want to consider. Mentors can come from 2 very different sources, depending where you work. In some larger organizations, there are formal mentoring programs where you are assigned or choose a mentor and they assist you in guiding your career path. In smaller organizations, or those without official policies, you often gravitate towards one senior person as a guide in your career.

Ok, now my confession. I have no mentor. I never gravitated towards anyone in any place I’ve worked. Maybe that says more about me than my employers, but I have 3 rules for taking advice at work.

1) Does the person have an ulterior or political motive?
2) Are you sure?
3) If you said no, you are wrong and need to go home.

Kōhai and Senpai

It’s important to remember that anyone in an organization is only as trustworthy as you believe them to be. Mentors are no different. A mentor is inherently a senior person in the company who has taken on the role of guiding the junior person.

The concept is similar to the Japanese aged-based status relationships of kōhai and senpai. More than simple seniority, senpai implies a relationship with reciprocal obligations, somewhat similar to a mentoring relationship. A kōhai is expected to respect and obey their senpai, and the senpai in turn must guide, protect, and teach their kōhai as best they can. Senpai/kōhai relationships generally last for as long as the two people concerned stay in contact, even if the original context in which the senpai was senior is no longer relevant.

Now, like most things, in a perfect world, this situation of honour and respect would still exist. The inherent trust would be focus both parties and provide a foundation and unity in the relationship.

Relationships Today

In 2008, you know as well as I do, you can’t trust anyone. You can’t be certain that your mentor won’t sell you out to improve his status or position. You know this because he is where he is. No one gets to the top on just hard work and dedication. If they did, you wouldn’t need sites about office politics like this one.

I am not saying mentors are useless, because they aren’t. If you can find someone to guide you along and offer some advice, then go for it. But don’t forget to keep your eye on what you want and where you want to be, and if you suspect the relationship isn’t working, it’s best to bail.

Parasites and Prey

I don’t trust mentors; I don’t trust anyone to act to altruistically towards me. It’s just the way I am. I do, however, try to learn from those above me. The ability to benefit from their experience is invaluable.

Mentors are not what they used to be, if they ever were that. There are no symbiotic relationships in business. There are parasites and prey. You can be the prey, and have someone use your knowledge for their gain, or you can be the parasite, and use whatever it takes to get to where you need to be.

It’s ugly, it’s nasty and vile, but it’s true. The faster you figure it out, the better off you’ll be.

CIOs stressed by office politics - Business Intelligence Network

How do I cope with office life when there is no work? - Financial Times Deutschland

Office Politics: Likeability is Nifty - Nova Scotia Business Journal

11 ways to be a happy employee - rediff news

From the blogosphere…

Career Killers and How to Avoid Them - Woman.ca

The Truth about Office Politics - Orais’ Insights

No More Excuses - JobGoRound.com

New Game Idea: Office Politics - Curufea

How to Deal With Office Politics - My Daily Blog Diary

It has been a few months that are working together now. Your office is fairly close to my cubicle - as a matter of fact, we have but a mere panel separating my desk from your office. If that panel was not there, we would actually be facing each other with a small hallway between us.

I hear everything!

I’ve been biting my tongue the last few days, but there’s something I need to get off my chest, as I find it extremely annoying. I don’t know if you realize, but when you are on the phone speaking to your clients, your candidates, your sister, or your mechanic, I hear every word you are saying. That loud annoying laugh of yours, that goes on three times as long as it probably should? I hear that too. Recognizing that I work in a “bullpen” set-up, I try to keep my voice reasonably low when I am on the phone so as not to terribly disturb the people around me. Even at that, I am in the corner. I don’t really hear people, people don’t hear me (I’ve asked). But alas, I hear you.

The Door

What I would like to bring to your attention is this fantastic new invention that you are lucky to possess that I unfortunately do not. On the frame of the entrance to your office you have these two things called “hinges”. These open upon themselves and allow you to operate this incredible invention. The phenomenon I speak about acts as a barrier. It contains sounds within a specific room such that you are immune to the noise around you, and those around you (AKA me) are immune to your noise. I strongly suggest you research the functionality of this invention; it is commonly known as a “door”.

If I had one at my disposal, I can guarantee you that it would be closed when I would be making my calls. I would not want the person I am speaking with to hear the background noise in our office, just like I would be sufficiently courteous not to burden our colleagues with the sounds of me giggling like a little schoolgirl.

This device is easy to use. I can gladly give you a crash course at your convenience. The basics? That object in the middle-left is called a “handle”. You can grip this to operate the said “door” and close it. Should you need to open the door again, a mere turn of the “handle” will release it from its enclosure.

Isn’t 21st century technology just wonderful?

Signed,

Aaron

The term “office politics” has an extremely negative connotation because, let’s face it, it can be really tough to be productive when forced to work with some of the less-than-genius people in our workplaces. If you’re really up for a challenge, though, learning to see office politics in a positive light can be a formidable but rewarding goal to set. Here are 3 tips to help you on your way:

Look at your coworkers as opportunities

Being with the same people day in and day out means that you have a unique chance to show those people how smart/helpful/creative you really are. If you consistently attempt to build positive relationships with others, it can only help you in your climb to the top.

Exception: Everyone, including your boss, can tell if you’re genuinely a nice person or if you’re just kissing ass, so don’t do it!

Avoid taking sides

No matter who you actually agree with, save the discourse on who’s wrong (and why) for your friends- who aren’t coworkers, of course. It can only harm you to have everyone in your office know exactly what kind of idiot you think your manager really is.

Exception: If ethics are involved, make it clear where you stand so you’re not dragged into anything messy.

Ask questions instead of making statements

It is easy to feel misunderstood when dealing with bosses or coworkers. Asking questions is a great way of showing the other person that you’re not just there to win, but you’re there for the good of the whole. Attempting to understand someone instead of win an argument (even if you know you’re right) takes the other person off the defensive and allows you to come to a mutually agreeable solution.

Exception: Don’t waste time asking questions of drama kings and queens. They will only end up wasting your time now that they know what a great listener you are!

It can be tough to see the positive side of office politics, but it’s a mental exercise that can offer many benefits both to your professional and personal development.

Dealing with drama queen not in your job description - Chicago Tribune

Economic worries may be stirring up office gossip - The Courier-Journal

From the blogosphere…

Tips to Deal with Office Politics - Spice Diva

Friend and Foe: Dealing With Workplace “Frenemies” - Reading Food Label and Expiry is Important

Management: Office Politics, the 5th Column - Business Wisdom Blog

No One Likes a Tattletale: School to Office Politics - Career Exploration

Now don’t get too excited, I already made my decision, my problem is logistic. I was able to take on this rotation because I artfully massaged the egos of the partners involved and made certain not to insert myself into their negotiations (another key way to avoid office politics). The transition was smooth because I kept everyone informed of my plans and they worked it out themselves.

What happens now?

It wasn’t supposed to be permanent. My old division chief understood; “6 month rotation, good opportunity. You should take the chance. Then you come back.” Now, I am not coming back. My new partner informed me that he believes I have a future here, that my skill set will only get better and that I can be valuable to the practice. And a compliment from this man is almost impossible. Legend is that he has yet to be impressed by anything, ever, in life. And he met Angeline Jolie. Naked.

I am now without a plan. How do I approach the multiple partners with wildly different personalities, egos and opinions to inform them of my choice without destroying my goodwill with either? Is this even possible?

Help.

People profiles

Partner 1 (Old Division)
- Junior partner
- Rising status in the firm
- Good practice
- Generally calm, has been known to lose temper with incompetent or wishy-washy staff

Partner 2 (New Division)
- Managing partner of division
- Type A personality
- Can destroy me (and my career) before lunch
- I am reasonably certain his blood has been replaced by caffeine and pure gasoline.

Me (Frightened)
- Generally calm
- Unable to make simple decisions
- Not a fan of milkshakes (not relevant, but still, I don’t like them)

Dear OfficeTricks,

I’m writing to hopefully obtain some advice. I have worked for this company for 2.5 years and I just gave my notice. Right now the plan is that I will work for 2 more weeks and then they are going to give me 1 week of severance pay after my two weeks. They have not given me a straight answer on whether I can cash out my personal and vacation hours (which total about 2.5 weeks right now). Am I entitled to those accrued hours? I’m hesitant to ask directly because people in the past have just been shown the door when they give notice and if I make waves they may do the same for me…please advise!

Thanks,
Leaving in 2 weeks

Dear Leaving in 2 weeks,

Thank you for your letter. In answering your question, I will assume that you reside in Canada. That being said, within 30 days of your final day your employer is obligated to pay you your 4% (AKA vacation pay). This 4% is calculated from your year-to-date earnings. Unless otherwise stipulated on your contract of employment, your employer is not obligated to compensate you for unused personal time off days.

Normally, if you are resigning voluntarily, your employer is not required to provide any compensation beyond your 4% and final pay cheque. Severance only occurs when the employer initiates the termination of employment. Is it possible that “severance” is being used internally to represent your vacation pay?

As to bringing up the topic internally, I would approach the Payroll Administrator or the Human Resources representative. If your employer does not have these individuals, then do not be shy to speak with your manager or the owner. From the sounds of things, you have navigated the office politics well thus far- you’ve been very cordial and respectful with your resignation, so in politely inquiring if you are entitled to your vacation pay and personal time off, I do not think you would be making waves. The fact that they are keeping you onboard rather than showing you the door as they have done to others supports this.

Thanks for reading,
Aaron

Nowadays, the term “networking” has taken on a new meaning. It no longer simply means that you can maintain casual water-cooler and elevator conversation with the higher-ups. With the advent of online social networking: Facebook, MySpace, LinkedIn, etc., worlds are colliding. Your office persona and your “real self” are no longer as separate as they used to be.

Social networking with managers and co-workers happens to be a reality for many of us - especially if you work in an office like mine — young(-ish) and gossipy well-connected. In fact, one of our senior managers is a self-confessed Facebook addict. “I creep everyone”, she says. Though I was aware of this fact, I was still taken aback when she remarked upon something in my profile and I made a mental note to be extra cautious about things.

I was further caught off guard when my own manager made a casual comment during our weekly one-on-one meeting. “I see you added me to your limited profile on Facebook,“ he said. I felt like a deer caught in headlights. But what was a girl to do - deny it? It was obvious I’d limited his access to my profile. So I chose the high road and ‘fessed up. “Well, what did you expect? You ARE my boss!” , I responded. To which he retorted with an “It’s okay - I already looked at all your pictures anyways.” Scary.

There are numerous disadvantages to allowing a manager or colleague visibility to your online profile. But believe it or not, there are some advantages as well. Here are a few pointers:

Constant Vigilance

Be prepared for a potential — or current — employer to search for your profile. My manager does this all the time. Interestingly enough, he owns up to it. Others won’t – so a simple “audit” of your pages can help keep things neat and clean.

Exploit all possibilities

Prior to my last job interview, I took the time to search all my interviewers on Facebook and Google. The result? I found out a few interesting facts, had an idea as to who was going to interview me and what they might potentially ask me about… and walked out with an offer.

Stalk smart

I did a quick Facebook search for our new Director. What did I find out? That he looks exactly the same as he did at the age of 10 and that, like myself, he’s an avid fan of the show Entourage. What did I do about it? Casually struck up an enjoyable conversation about the show the next time I bumped into him in the elevator. Now we discuss the episodes each week and he’s no longer the “Intimidating Director”. Score: Gia 1, Non-Stalkers 0.

Remain professional

This point is self-explanatory. If you do have managers and colleagues on your friend list, don’t forget that after all, they are managers and colleagues. While your interactions may be online, they shouldn’t differ drastically from anything you would say or do in the office.

Use available resources

“Limited Profile” and other extended security settings are there for a reason – use them. Be wary of the networks you join and what you make available for viewing. Colleagues are potentially “safe”, managers may or may not be.

“My boss just added me to Facebook!!!”

Sometimes, there’s just no escaping this one. But if an exit door is available, think about this - do you want the person filling out your performance evaluation to judge you on things that are online? It may be subliminal, but it may be best to avoid this scenario rather than put yourself in the line of fire. And, with this in mind…

Don’t be afraid to say no

While this may be easier said than done, at the end of the day, you do have the right to refuse to add someone. Another option may be to strictly add co-workers to a more professional social network (such as LinkedIn). Whatever it may be, it’s definitely a tough call – but the boss and your colleagues have to respect your decision to try to keep your personal life, well, personal.

The bottom line? Don’t dismiss the opportunities social networking can provide – but add at your own risk!