In every workplace, whether corporate, nonprofit, entrepreneurial, governmental, or faith-based, there’s an invisible game happening: office politics. It’s not listed in the employee handbook, but it shapes who gets promoted, who gets heard, and who gets left behind.
Office politics refers to the strategies individuals use—consciously or unconsciously—to gain advantage and influence in a professional setting. While the term often carries a negative vibe, the truth is: politics are inevitable. The good news? You don’t have to play dirty to win the game—just play smart, play kind, and most importantly, play authentically.
I’ve worked with leaders and teams for over 30 years, and the same principles hold true across industries: when you ignore politics, you lose power. But when you understand how to navigate them with integrity, you become unstoppable. Like a good game of chess which requires strategy.
THE DO’S OF OFFICE POLITICS
1. Build Relationships Across All Levels
Don’t just network up—network across and down. Real influence is built on mutual respect, not just titles.
2. Observe and Learn the Culture
Every workplace has its own rhythm. Understand what behaviors are rewarded and who really holds influence.
3. Communicate Clearly and Consistently
Be seen, be heard, and be intentional. Keep your leaders and colleagues informed and make sure your contributions are visible.
4. Solve Problems, Don’t Just Spot Them
People remember those who bring solutions. Be a contributor, not a complainer.
THE DON’TS OF OFFICE POLITICS
1. Don’t Gossip or Undermine Others
It may feel powerful in the moment, but it damages your long-term credibility.
2. Don’t Overshare Personal Drama
Maintain boundaries. Authenticity doesn’t mean emotional dumping.
3. Don’t Burn Bridges
Keep it professional, even when exiting or clashing. Today’s adversary could hold tomorrow’s opportunity
4. Don’t Dismiss Feedback (Be Coachable)
Feedback isn’t failure—it’s direction. Use it to refine your strategy and grow. Know that a person can’t get better if no one can tell them anything.
A COMMON SCENARIO: THE CREDIT TAKER
You’ve led a project to success. But in the final meeting, a colleague positions themselves as the key player, taking subtle credit and getting all the shine. Sound familiar? This is classic office politics. Instead of reacting emotionally, document your contributions, seek strategic visibility, and speak up—graciously but confidently. The workplace rewards not just performance, but perception.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Winning at office politics isn’t about being fake—it’s about being aware. It’s emotional intelligence in action. It’s managing relationships, understanding influence, and maintaining your values under pressure.
As The People Expert™, I teach that success in any environment comes down to one thing: how you show up. So yes—play the game. But play it well. Play it wisely. And most importantly, play it as you.
“You don’t have to play dirty to win the game—just play smart, play kind, and most importantly, play authentically.”
Dr. Sabrina Jackson “The People Expert” helps people with people, even if that person is themselves. She is also a Speaker, TV/Radio Personality, Author, and Life Coach seen on Fox 2 Weekly with Mental Health Mondays. Follow on Instagram @ThePeopleExpert_ website: www.sabrinajackson.com.
