Office Politics and Gossip Kyle Kearney Work Based Learning Coordinator Ravena-Coeymans-Selkirk High School

2 Office Politics Office (Work) Politics Defined Pros and Cons of Office Politics How to avoid Office Politics Workplace Gossip

3 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

4 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

5 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

6 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.

7 Cons of Office Politics Unwarranted Power Struggles Encourages Hypocrisy, Secrecy, and Self-interests Produces ineffective team work among staff members

8 Pros of Office Politics Highly motivated employees Employee Recognition Increases Boosts Employee Morale

9 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

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

11 Workplace Gossip Video

12 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

13 Pros of Gossip Provides an outlet for stress, tension, and anxiety Makes work less boring Showcases future leaders Provides feedback on employee attitudes

14 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

15 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

16 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

17 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.