How to manage office politics and stay relevant

To build a good career, avoid smear campaigns, gossiping or mudslinging as they can only damage your own credibility.

NAIROBI: Politics is an inescapable fact of life that is deeply engrained in the workplace. Office politics - the clash of differences or conflicts of interest between workers - often stems from fear or greed. This may see employees fear losing resources or lack confidence in their own ability to perform well, and end up discrediting others.

The immediate reaction of office politics is flight or fight. The vice breeds back stabbing, deceit, gamesmanship, sabotage, ruining people’s reputations among other tactics used by colleagues to get ahead. There is also mistrust which lowers morale, satisfaction and productivity.