Office Politics and Gossip

Kyle KearneyWork Based Learning Coordinator

Ravena-Coeymans-SelkirkHigh School

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Office Politics

Office (Work) Politics Defined

Pros and Cons of Office Politics

How to avoid Office Politics

Workplace Gossip

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Pre-Test

1. Office politics occur

1. Only within public agencies

2. Only in private Corporations

3. In nearly all business situations

4. Everywhere except Disney World

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Pre-Test

2. A benefit of office politics is:

1. Encouragement of secrecy

2. Highly motivated employees

3. Reduction in the overall team effort

4. Power struggles

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Pre-Test

3. A benefit of gossip would be

1. Rumors can increase productivity

2. Resistance to management plans

3. More information is passed along to employees

4. Provides stress relief

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Office Politics Defined

The complex struggle for dominance that takes place in any organization.

When workers actively seek ways to make their abilities and achievements known.

Ruthless manipulation of other people in an attempt to gain power.

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Cons of Office Politics

Unwarranted Power Struggles

Encourages Hypocrisy, Secrecy,and Self-interests

Produces ineffective team work among staff members

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Pros of Office Politics

Highly motivated employees

Employee Recognition Increases

Boosts Employee Morale

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Making Office Politics Work for You

Remap the organization chart

Understand the informal networks - Make the most of your network

Build Relationships

Listen Carefully

Govern your own behavior

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Politics Happen

Wise politicking will get you where you need to go without compromising others

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Workplace Gossip Video

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Cons of Office Gossip

Incorrect Information is passed along

Contributes to the spread of rumors

Creates conflicting loyalties

Counteracts Company Values

Encourages Resistance to

Management Plans

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Pros of Gossip

Provides an outlet for stress, tension, and anxiety

Makes work less boring

Showcases future leaders

Provides feedback on employee attitudes

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Post Test

1. Office politics occur

1. Only within public agencies

2. Only in private Corporations

3. In nearly all business situations

4. Everywhere except Disney World

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Post Test

2. A benefit of office politics is:

1. Encouragement of secrecy

2. Highly motivated employees

3. Reduction in the overall team effort

4. Power struggles

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Post Test

3. A benefit of gossip would be

1. Rumors can increase productivity

2. Resistance to management plans

3. More information is passed along to employees

4. Provides stress relief

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Office Politics and Gossip Web Resources

Assignment: Search for a resource on Workplace Politics or Gossip. Create a training brochure for employees on how to deal with and avoid this practice.