Tip Toeing Through the Minefield

Some knowledge trumps all other

From time to time job search experts have talked about soft skills and how important they are to a job seeker. There is a fair amount written on the subject. Here’s one soft skill, however, a lot of people usually don’t talk about.

Someone pointed this out the other day. All organizations – all organizations – have some level of internal politics. Sometimes it’s suffocating. Sometimes it’s barely lurking in the corners, but it’s still there nonetheless. Regardless, it needs to be dealt with if one is going to be successful on the job.

A mountain to be climbed

Navigating the minefield of office politics can’t be taught. There are no courses at the finest business schools. It’s simply something you need to learn how to do. On your own. Over time. Largely because every organization has its own special set of political pitfalls.

Good intentions, exuberance and enthusiasm won’t overcome it. Some people catch on pretty quickly. Others never get it.

If you’ve been around the block a few times, you’re that much more likely, first, to be able to recognize and assess the situation. And, second, determine quickly who the players are and how to maneuver the landscape to complete whatever it is that needs to get done.

Experienced and savvy – the older applicant has been there; has done that. And they can do it again – much more quickly, much more adeptly and with a greater degree of success.

This is another reason that they can hit the ground running and not be sidetracked by the foibles of the everyday business world. That’s what makes them – and you – more productive and more efficient. And more desirable as a potential employee. Not bad qualities to have around.

More tips.