The corporate ladder is a tough one to climb but the payouts could be as enticing as corner offices, exclusive club memberships, exotic vacations – not to mention, big fat pay hikes. No wonder people use various tactics and of course politics to come out on top.

Though, it doesn’t have to be that way.

Here’s how you can rise up that ladder without getting into low and petty workplace politics:

Do a SWOT analysis   

No two individuals are the same. That’s why the first thing to spot in any workplace is to recognise the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats from your co-workers.

This will help you be far more tactful when making decisions and approaching them. For example, some co-workers are far more emotional than logical while some might like a quirky rather than a professional approach. Knowing this will help you to talk and understand them at their own wavelength.

Be crystal clear about boundaries

Just like a relationship, a workplace environment has to be completely transparent. Stop the grapevine from growing within the organisation. Lay down your dos and don’ts to your co-workers so that there’s no room for any speculations.

That’s why it is important to build a people-to-people forum where ideas and discussions can flow smoothly without any judgements or pre-conditions. This helps people to express themselves and build trust.

Keep it strictly professional     

Where many managers or workers go wrong is to take things to heart. Feedback should be constructive and at the same time, there should be no grudges outside the workplace. Whatever differences you have, keep them limited to the cubicle or boardroom. Outside the office, you can still build bonds and a network of friends. Nothing personal, simply professional.

Do you have an opinion on workplace politics? Let us know.