Analyzing the Power Struggle and Office Politics

Office politics can get messy. Make no mistake about it: no matter where you go in the world, you will always find political turmoil. This is simply human nature. Man and womankind are ego-driven creatures and will typically fight viciously when threatened. What can you do as an innocent bystander? You have to find a compromise between playing the politician (which is always a risky game) and being a perfectly docile worker (who is frequently taken advantage of). By now you are aware of some of the most common characteristics of politicking opponents. They speak smoothly and always with a purpose. They seek power in every situation, and carefully take note of their opponent's strengths and weaknesses. They tend to browbeat weaker opponents either with direct criticism or with a barrage of intellectual rhetoric showcasing their knowledge. Now that they have intimidated everyone else into compliance, it may be your turn to bow in respect. Will you do it? Will you even notice what is happening in this political game?

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