The Hidden Rules of the Workplace - How to Play the Game Intelligently and with Confidence

I was privileged to deliver a presentation recently as the 28th and final mentor of the current Davidson Oturu Mentorship cycle programme. When I was first invited to facilitate a session, I had a long hard think about what I wanted to speak on. I settled on the hidden rules of the workplace because I want to give people insight into things I did not get an opportunity to learn before the start of my career.

According to official reports, the average number of years we will spend working whether as an employee or not is an average of 36.9 years. That is a long time isn't it!!!!. Precisely, why we need to learn the intricacies of the workplace sooner rather than later. The truth of the matter is work whether in the literal sense as a physical place we go to or whether virtual and dealing with remote teams is where and how takes up a big chunk of our lives so learning the game and knowing how to make it serve you is crucial early on. Navigating the workplace can be complex and sometimes downright political. Your formal job description may outline your official tasks and role but it rarely prepares you for the unspoken rules that govern promotions, power, visibility and influence in the work place.

The workplace can also be likened with a jungle - 'the corporate jungle' and you will encounter different beasts, birds, animals, insects and reptiles, etc I could go on. First of all, it is really important to determine what type of work place environment suits you best regardless of whether you are a grad or a working mom or dad going back to the workplace after a long break or perhaps pivoting from one industry to another. Getting ahead in the workplace is not about ticking off a to do list everyday, closing up for the day at a reasonable hour and returning the next day to do it all again. No, you have to be much more strategic and smarter than that. Getting ahead requires being intentional about learning the ins and outs, how to be emotionally intelligent in the work place as well as playing with confidence.

1. Investigate the workplace dynamics of the industry or the organisation you want to work for - I call this checking the temperature. Most of the time when we look for our very first role or look to switch jobs we tend to be drive by the reputation and branding of the firm, the salary, benefits. In addition its important to find out about the true nature or culture of the organisation. It is important to get a sense of the culture as part of your investigation. There is honestly no point being a sanguine type and applying for a role at a firm that is full of people stuck behind the desks that barely communicate. Or being a shy quiet type thrust into a social firms with high expectations to have a vibrant social life to keep up with the role. YOU WILL NOT LAST. It is best to find a place that aligns with your values where you can thrive.
2. Know the players - animal archetypes in the workplace. I will never forget the first time I was called a connector. It was a friend of mine , I will call her Susan for the sake of this piece and she told me I am she noticed I bring people and things together. It was a moment of realisation and I have lived up to that role deliberately since she called me that. I also bring that role to the fore in the workplace because it helps me lead more effectively. I would easily state that are different types of people in the workplace, some are natural leaders - the lions, some are strategic - the owl, some are dolphins like me - connectors, some are sly and cunning and political - the Fox and some are protectors and community builders, the elephant. A key to surviving the workplace and moving up is studying the various personalities and understanding who best to align with. In order to align properly you have to have a good level of self awareness. Are you a leader , a politician , a loner strategist or a connector. This will give you a good idea how to align.
3. Build Executive Presence and earn respect - The way you communicate both verbally and non verbally will go along way to help you get ahead but it can also hold you back if you fail to develop communication skills. When you speak , ensure you speak with purpose. Do not become a people pleaser such people are vulnerable and can be used by others and don't expect any credit in such a situation. Learn how to deal with different types of people, especially the most difficult people in the office, its very tempting and human to practice avoidance but learn to be calm , unshaken and unstirred.
4. Understand that your IQ and your competence gets you the job but in reality its your Emotional Intelligence in combination with your competence that will keep you on the ascent. You will need to learn to navigate through the politics, the pretence and the complexities. Resist the temptation to keep your head down and focus on just the job that is the easy and less inspirational route. You want to learn from colleagues, the support teams, etc. The workplace is an opportunity to learn the art of diplomacy and communication. Do not play small but be careful not to outdo yourself either. Every one you meet is a mentor and a mirror. Be observant and attentive.
5. It's not just what you know , it's also who you know. Not all workplaces are guided by meritocracy. Be mindful of this. If you are determined to choose such an environment. You must learn to work smarter not just harder.

I hope these tips help you draw out your best and help you navigate office dynamics and lead with purpose. Keep Developing Your A Game.