Surviving office politics: Steer clear or speak up?

Listen as KZN shares their views on office politics with Damon below, or read the details under the podcast. 

From what I can gather, if you’re like most people, you probably try your best to avoid office politics?

For me, I choose to live stress, and politics-free. I stay to myself and don't get involved in business that doesn't concern me. There's nothing worse than allowing office drama to weigh you down. Life is busy enough. 

I came across a study which said that an estimated three-quarters of employees have said that their boss is the most stressful part of their job, while a third dread going to work because of colleagues, and the reality is that many of us will be affected by office politics at some point.

To fix a toxic work culture, you have two choices. You either choose to get involved or blatantly try to ignore the situation.  

Read: What's the worst office gossip you've ever heard?

Some offices are steeped in office politics, with co-workers throwing each other under the bus left and right to get ahead. Lying, manipulating, stealing ideas, in some offices, that's just par for the course, and it can be pretty hard to cope with when you're the nice person in a sea of jerks.

If you do find yourself in an office politics situations, NewsDay has reported a few tips to help you cope:

• Don't take sides - Remove yourself from the situation and be as objective as possible.
• Just do your job - Focus on what you're good at and don't waste time by getting wrapped up.
• Know your company - Take time to know about the HR procedures and policies which exist so you know how to report unethical behaviour.

Do you fear being embroiled in gossip and conflict that does not involve you?

Also read: Office party do's and don'ts