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Factor: N/A
Cluster M: Trouble with people
Career staller and stopper 110: Political missteps
110. Political missteps

Organizations are a complex maze of constituencies, issues, and rivalries peopled by strong egos,
sensitive personalities, and empire protectors. People who are politically savvy accept this as the human
condition and deal with it by considering the impact of what they say and do on others. Political savvy
involves getting things done in the maze with the minimum of noise. Political mistakes come in a variety of
shapes and sizes. The most common is saying things that you shouldn’t. This comes in two shapes—you
knew it was wrong but you couldn’t hold it back, or you didn’t know it was wrong to say and were
surprised at the reaction. Next, are actions that are politically out of line and not right for the context.
Worst, are politically unacceptable moves, initiatives, tactics, and strategies. You tried to get something
done in the organization and went about it in the wrong way. Last are unnecessary conflicts, tensions,
misunderstandings, and rivalries created because you provoked a specific person or group.

“Every political system is an accumulation of habits,
customs, prejudices, and principles that have survived
a long process of trial and error and of ceaseless
response to changing circumstances.”

Edward C. Banfield – American political scientist and author

A problem
• Can’t get things done in complex political settings and environments.
• Lacks sensitivity to people and organizational politics.
• Doesn’t recognize political due process requirements.

• Says and does the wrong things.
• Shares sensitive information and opinions with the wrong people.

Not a problem
• Is politically smooth and noiseless.
• Reads individuals and groups well; knows how they are affected.
• Modifies approach when resistance is met.
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