👋🏻 I’m Jennifer
As a former BlackRock VP > startup operator > entrepreneur, I have seen a LOT of office politics.
Here are my 4 hot tips on how to deal with them
1️⃣ Build Positive Relationships:
Treat everyone - competitive colleagues & snappy bosses included - as a potential ally.
Proactively offer to work on projects and provide support where you can.
People will rarely say no to extra help. And you’ll generate a lot of goodwill!
Which in turn will make the work environment more enjoyable,
It also helped me gain influential allies who supported my career growth throughout my junior and senior years in the company.
2️⃣ Navigate Power Dynamics:
Understanding and navigating power dynamics is CRUCIAL.
Yes, I know, it may be tiring but it pays off in so many ways.
Plus, it’s all about self-improvement and strategy.
At BlackRock, I observed that the individuals who commanded respect were those who possessed both expertise and influence.
I took time to get to know them, and make them get to know me.
I also made sure I wasn’t just all talk.
I proactively sought out opportunities to expand my knowledge and skills, which made me an even more valuable resource in the company.
And once I had that relationship, I made sure they knew of the quality work I was doing.
Casually, of course. 😉
3️⃣ Transparency and Authenticity:
Spoiler alert: You don’t have to fake it to make it.
Being transparent and genuine helped me build trust and credibility.
Instead of playing mind games or engaging in gossip, I focused on open and honest communication.
I addressed conflicts or misunderstandings directly and sought resolutions that were fair and constructive.
This approach not only diffused any tension but also earned me a reputation as a reliable and trustworthy colleague.
4️⃣ Embrace Challenges.
It’s no surprise: office politics often come with challenges and obstacles, so it’s time for a mindset shift
Take these challenges as opportunities for growth.
Don’t shy away from difficult situations.
Embrace them!
Personally, I:
✅ Volunteered for projects that required navigating complex dynamics;
✅ Accepted challenging assignments; and
✅ Stepped out of my comfort zone.
Each hurdle became a chance to showcase my abilities, problem-solving skills, and resilience.
By embracing these challenges, I not only gained valuable experience but also demonstrated my commitment to personal and professional growth.
This helped me rise above office politics as someone everyone wanted to work with!
***
Navigating office politics doesn’t have to be about playing games or seeking personal gain.
You can foster a healthy and collaborative work environment that benefits everyone involved.
That’s how I did it, and I know I’m not the only one.
PS: That said, if you’re tired of dealing with office politics& want to get out (!!), DM me with “POLITICS”, and we’ll figure out a way to thrive in your dream career.
