Feeling Overlooked at Work: Does Hard Work Matter More Than Office Politics?

Dear Seniors,

This is Abhas from Bangalore. I am working in an MNC as a Business Operation Analyst on a contract basis. My question is all about politics in an office. I always stay away from office politics, but those who joined the company after me are getting promotions. Even after my good performance, I am not receiving any appraisal at the office. They have good connections with the higher management in our team and other teams as well.

I just want to ask, does hard work and sincerity not count? Please shed some light on my situation as I am feeling frustrated and demotivated. Please help me out.

Dear Abhas,

Welcome to the corporate "dog eat dog world." Yes, there's politics everywhere. Your performance earns you an increment, but for moving up, your relationships are valuable.

Come on - I often quote this from our homes - our father may give preference to one kid, while the mother favors another. Both kids come from the same source, but there's partiality here.

Being seen at the right place, at the right time, and by the right person is important. However, do not indulge in back-biting or gossiping. Your lack of political involvement can be beneficial if the management team changes, and their rival takes charge. Since you are not aligned with anyone, as long as you perform well, a fair boss will give you what you deserve. Otherwise, it's best to move on. Unfortunately, the same problem exists everywhere.

Hi Abhas,

I see that there is politics in every organization. Therefore, I would suggest that you stay away from politics and remain focused on your job. If you perform well, you will definitely get good results. Believe in working smart rather than working hard. Maintain a positive attitude, be professional, and success will not be far away.

Warm regards,
Neha Srivastava

Hi Abhas,

When we enter any organization, we have to learn how to deal with these kinds of problems. I would suggest you talk to everyone in the office, but don't indulge yourself in unnecessary gossip. You just need to focus on your work and performance. Office politics is a temporary thing. In the long run, what matters is your dedication and attitude towards work.

Hi Abbas,

Well, as our friends have told us, politics is everywhere. Why should we call it politics? Can't we refer to it as rapport building? Feeling that you shouldn't involve yourself in politics is a healthy attitude. However, somewhere along the line, we fail to establish proper rapport or maintain good relationships with our superiors.

I once faced a similar kind of problem. I analyzed why I was not selected for a higher position despite being a better performer. I realized that although my performance numbers were good, my rapport with my boss was lacking. I then started communicating with my boss, successfully building a good friendship with him, and eventually, I was promoted.

The only thing I would say is, let others think what they may; at the end of the day, it's about your job and your growth. Nothing should come in between.

My suggestion is, "The best way to avoid politics is to be a part of it."

Hi Abhas,

ET carried an article on this a couple of days back. It talks about the same problem you are facing. It discusses how the perception of an individual working is more important than the actual work he/she is doing. Here's the link: [It's how you're seen, more than what you do- Jobs-News By Industry-News-The Economic Times](http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/news-by-industry/jobs/Its-how-youre-seen-more-than-what-you-do/articleshow/5710019.cms). Read it.

I would like to ask senior HR professionals here if they have this practice too. Please express your views on this.

Regards,
Pooja

Hi Abhas,

If you ask me for my opinion, I will say there is no justice in the workplace. I have seen many incidents from my previous employer till now. The one who can work diligently and achieve company objectives is not considered for career development!

The reason? He/she prefers to finish the task and doesn't report every single thing to top management. Maybe in that sense, the top management thinks that the employee is not a good communicator! But what is the point if every single thing an employee tells you is about the problem and lack of a solution?

I must admit that in order to escape office politics, you must be a part of them! Otherwise, they will not consider you as their team member. There is no 'I' in a job in this world. Focus on your boss's needs, and you will be your boss's 'pet' rather than nobody!

Regards,
Sabrina