Read and reflect if this resonates. 

You have more than ten years into your work experience, while you have worked a lot on honing your skills, and have a good performance track, yet you find yourself constantly looking for ways to career development because you are stuck!

-You are not able to understand what the possible reason could be

-You are silent, but deep within a constant frustration envelope you

-You look for ways, try some methods based on your own past experiences

-You are careful and vigilant 

However, sense you are missing out on something that translates into Office Politics 

If this is you ,

Then take a step back and before anything else, it is time to get to the basics and understand what office politics is and what it entails 

Because awareness is the first step to progress.

Office politics refers to the informal, often behind-the-scenes dynamics that influence decisions, relationships, and power structures within an organization.

It involves navigating personal relationships, power struggles, and competing interests to achieve individual or group goals.

Office politics is not always negative—it can be neutral or even positive, depending on how it’s used—but it often carries a reputation for manipulation or self-interest.

How to Identify Office Politics:

Unspoken Power Dynamics: Observe who holds influence beyond their official role. Some people may not be in leadership positions but still have significant sway in decisions.

Informal Networks: Pay attention to the alliances and social circles within the workplace. Who gets included in informal meetings, social events, or decision-making conversations?

Decision-Making Patterns: Notice how decisions are made. Are there patterns where certain people’s ideas or opinions carry more weight, regardless of merit?

Gatekeepers: Identify who controls access to information, resources, or key stakeholders. These individuals often wield power by determining who can connect with influential figures.

Favoritism: Look for signs of favoritism, where certain employees consistently receive better opportunities, recognition, or rewards, not necessarily based on performance.

Backchannel Communications: Pay attention to unofficial channels of communication (whispers, hallway conversations, private chats) where important information or decisions may be discussed before formal meetings.

Conflict and Rivalries: Watch for conflicts, rivalries, or competing interests. Office politics often involves people vying for power, influence, or resources.

Perception Management: Observe how employees manage their image and reputation. Some may spend more time networking or aligning yourself with key players rather than focusing on the quality of their work.

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If through these points you are able to identify your present situation and the problem at hand , then as next steps, click here to connect and we take it on from there.

© Mehnaz Amjad 2017-2025

Mehnaz Amjad | Coach
Hyderabad, India