Office politics 101: How to deal with your colleagues

Politics always exists within a group. It's bound to happen, as no two individuals are the same. There will be winners and losers, which won't be a pleasant sight. You'll be a part of it whether you intend it or not. This won't be encouraging if you happen to be a newbie in the workplace. It doesn't mean that you're helpless in such a situation. Here are some pointers:

Be wary of buddies. There's nothing wrong about making new friends in the workplace. As a matter of fact, camaraderie can make a better working environment. But try to look ahead. There will be an unexpected happening, and the outcome won't be good to the company. Someone must be liable to it. Circumstances might force your colleague (or two) to turn against you. It might be too late to wonder if it would be a right thing to do. (Politics can be a gray matter.) Be pleasant. Try to be nice as always. Find a common ground. The last one may seem hard to figure out, but there's nothing wrong if you want to know the interests of your colleagues. Football is a possibility. If it's not, then it will be up to you to find out.

Pay attention to gossipmongers. Eleanor Roosevelt once quipped that great minds would talk about ideas, while average minds rather talk about events. Small minds would prefer to talk about people. This quote could be a reminder to all of us during working hours. But it's easier said than done. Unless you're the kind of person who had too many experiences, then you might be tempted to talk about your colleague. Not that it's wrong especially if you're a bit too curious. You'd be warned, as your feelings can influence your thoughts (and actions). Any information can be used against you (or your colleague). It will be pointless to analyze it (and figure out if it's intentional or not). Do your job, and mind your own business (as possible).

Keep an eye on spies. Someone will nose around, as this colleague of yours is seeking promotion. You'll be disgusted, but think long and hard about it. This kind of happening is seen anywhere. (It can happen in a university.) You must be aware of any form of subtlety being used (to gain your confidence). If you know your Shakespeare too well, then there might be an Iago in your midst. This colleague can pose a danger to anyone. (It will be unlikely that the blame will fall on this individual.) You shouldn't be paranoid, as it will affect your performance. (And your colleagues will be suspicious sooner than you think.) Don't let your guard down. Keep in mind that your performance will be the basis of assessment.

You'll encounter another kind of colleague, who is openly hostile to anyone in the workplace. Keep a distance, but don't be intimidated at all. This approach can get tiresome, and termination can happen sooner than you hope for.