Office workers are still playing politics
Two-thirds think it's necessary to advance: survey
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Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 06/07/2016 (3597 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.
The workplace may have become more politically correct, but office politics is still very much a thing.
A recent survey done by staffing firm Accountemps found 80 per cent of Canadian professionals said they believe office politics is alive and well in the workplace.
And regardless of how you feel about the moral or ethical value of office politics, a majority of Canadians think you either have to play the game or risk compromising your career opportunities.
Sixty-six per cent of respondents said politicking is somewhat or very necessary for career advancement. That’s down about five per cent from a similar survey done in 2012.
How do people characterize office politics? Exactly half of the respondents said the most common forms are gossip, and 23 per cent said it’s all about gaining favour by flattering the boss.
The survey suggests there’s still plenty of cutthroat manoeuvres at play, with 18 per cent of respondents saying taking credit for other people’s work “is most common” when it comes to office politics.
More than half — 54 per cent — said they take part in office politics, 10 per cent described themselves as “active campaigners” and 44 per cent identified themselves as “occasional voters.”
Only 22 per cent of the respondents said it was not necessary to get ahead, and 12 per cent said they did not know what effect involvement in office politics had on their careers.
The survey was conducted by an independent research firm. About 370 Canadian adults employed in office environments participated in the survey.
Dianne Hunnam-Jones, Canadian president of Accountemps, said since it’s happening around you, it may not be easy to avoid office politicking, but common sense and mindfulness is required.
‘Getting involved in contentious matters at work may negatively impact how you are perceived professionally’
“Getting involved in contentious matters at work may negatively impact how you are perceived professionally,” she said.
To prevent adversely affecting your career opportunities, try to keep your distance and remain tactful and diplomatic.”
— staff