Everyone at one time or another has to deal with office politics. You know the person, the one who’s always brown-nosing the boss and then turning around and micromanaging everyone else because they want to throw their authority around.   Some people can just ignore this situation and take care of business. But others are pulled into the ‘political turmoil’ and wonder what the heck is going on.  Do people really need to constantly throw their authority around?  Do they think this makes them more powerful or are they fulfilling some grandiose fantasy they have? Some people tend to think that too much office politics actually can decrease productivity.   According to the Human Capital League, approximately 47% of people say that office politics can be distracting.  However, we still all have to get along and work towards accomplishing the company’s goals or mission.  The best thing to do is remain as professional as possible and show them the real reason why you were hired—your skill set, integrity, and ability to get the job done.   And try not to fall prey to the cat and mouse game of the office politico.

How have you learned to sidestep the drama of office politics in order to get your work done?  What advice can you share with those still struggling to get past it?