2005-02-09 Handouts - Laserfiche WebLink

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How Political Are YOU? Try a Self-Test By Susan Osborn, PhD According to Saul Alinsky. "People speak out on moral principles but act on power principles. " The following actions provide examples of political tactics based on both moral and power principles. They offer an ethical path to political effectiveness. Check all of the items that apply to you. _1. Some politicians strive to make a difference. I believe office politics is a lot like campaigning for public office; it can be a vehicle for achieving noble purposes. _2. Hard work and exceptional performance aren't enough to guarantee success. Many talented people fail because they don't follow the rules for political survival. I make an effort to learn as much as I can about political processes. _3. I know the unofficial history of my company - who has power, how they got it, how far people will go, and where the bodies are buried. I understand my company's political style and am comfortable with it. _4. The most precious currency in organizations is relationships. It's important to form alliances with people who will tell me what's going on and who will stand up for me. I ask myself, "Whose help do I need?" Then I explore avenues of mutual support. _5. I recognize the importance of image. I am comfortable speaking in public and know how to present ideas clearly. I never reveal all of myself to others; I hold something back so people are never sure they really know me. _6. Power must be earned; it cannot be given. I know how to compete for limited resources. I continually expand my knowledge, skills, and abilities. - _7. Flexibility and cheerfulness are better weapons than brute force. I make it a point to be courteous, pleasant, and positive. I am careful not to create ill will or burn bridges. _8. I am loyal to my boss even when we disagree. I never correct my boss in public or bypass or "bad mouth" my boss. I don't make waves; I move smoothly without disturbing things. _9. I respond to gossip by thinking about what's said. Does it make sense? Who stands to gain from spreading rumors? I don't pass it on but try to map the gossip system so I can figure out the source. _10. I send thank-you notes to customers and employees. I congratulate people who get promoted even iff don't like them. _11. I know that bosses tend to promote people they're comfortable with. I come in early or work late to have an opportunity to talk with my boss. _12. I package projects by emphasizing what's best for the organization. I pull people toward my ideas by looking for ways to get the most for everybody. I position outcomes so my victories are everyone's victories. _13. It's important to find out as much as possible about the opposition. You can't change minds if you don't know what other people are thinking. I ask questions to gain information, but I do so in a way that builds support. _14. I appreciate the fine art of small talk. Schmoozing helps me sharpen my communication skills. - _15. I am building visibility outside the company by getting involved in professional associations, writing for trade publications, taking part in community affairs, an/or speaking to service clubs.