5 Habits of Highly Political Savvy Professionals
How do some professionals seem to have a natural talent for navigating the political landscape of their workplaces? They always seem to be in the right place at the right time, and they know how to win others over to their side. The truth is, political savviness is not a natural talent but a learned skill that anyone can develop. In this article, we explore five habits of highly political savvy professionals.
Habit 1: They Build Strong Relationships
Political savvy professionals understand the value of building strong relationships with colleagues, clients, and stakeholders. They take the time to get to know people on a personal level, make an effort to understand their needs and interests, and work to build trust. They avoid gossip and negativity and always strive to maintain a positive reputation with those around them.
Habit 2: They Listen More Than They Speak
Effective communication is a hallmark of any political savvy professional, but it’s not just about being a great speaker. Highly political savvy professionals are excellent listeners. They take the time to listen to other people’s opinions, concerns, and ideas, and they’re not afraid to incorporate those perspectives into their own plans and strategies. By actively listening and incorporating others’ ideas, they build stronger relationships and earn the respect of those they work with.
Habit 3: They Anticipate Challenges
Political savvy professionals tend to be proactive in anticipating potential challenges. They think ahead and develop contingency plans for dealing with potential obstacles. By doing so, they make themselves more valuable to their organization and are better able to manage risks that may arise.
Habit 4: They Have a Strong Sense of Self-Awareness
One of the critical traits of highly political savvy professionals is their self-awareness. They understand their strengths and weaknesses and are honest with themselves about what they bring to the table. They take feedback constructively and use it as a tool for self-improvement. By understanding themselves, they are better able to understand others and adapt their style to achieve their goals.
Habit 5: They Are Strategic with Their Actions
Political savvy professionals are deliberate in their actions and words. They are strategic in everything they do, and they always have a purpose. They understand the importance of timing and the influence of power dynamics and use this knowledge to their advantage. By being strategic, they are better able to influence outcomes, build coalitions, and achieve their goals.
In conclusion, political savvy professionals are skilled at building relationships, listening, anticipating challenges, self-awareness, and being strategic. By developing these habits, anyone can become a highly political savvy professional and excel in their career. Whether you’re a leader or a team member, political savvy is an asset that will set you apart from the rest.
