Being politically savvy is often considered negative, unsavory and self-serving. It somehow implies that one’s success is based on the ability to navigate political terrain. But each competency has a negative and positive side. Political savvy unfortunately lingers in the negative zone.
Politics is often described as a ‘’battleground, with strong players on both sides.” We will watch someone rise to a position based on strong self-promotion skills, following a path of self-interest — and few of us want to be that person. This explains in part why there are so many reservations about the phrase ‘politically savvy’ and why those who have such an aptitude will rarely mention it as a strength. But it is.
“Politics” is neither good nor bad; it is neutral, an integral part of everyday life in organizations. As Gareth Morgan said, “One of the curious features of organizational life is that although many people know they are surrounded by organizational politics, they rarely come out and say so.” When applied with noble intentions, political savvy is an essential lever for building strong partnerships and getting good work done, an important complement to competence as you advance in your career.
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