authenticity is one of the most important political skills that you can develop. People believe you are sincere and genuine when you're trying to influence them, Maddie says. But if you're always having to be acting and being someone you're not, it is quite challenging. As you go through your career, I think you can become more at home with who you are - but it depends on the people around you for you.
Everyone at work has their own priorities, concerns, and agendas, and knowing what those are allows us to navigate projects and meetings more deliberately and successfully. But how do you get the intel you need to achieve the results you want, especially if you’re the odd woman out in a male-dominated company and industry? What exactly does “political capital” mean? And how does one begin to change exclusionary and toxic politics so that they’re inclusive and healthy?
Organizational psychologist Madeleine Wyatt answers those questions and offers advice on how to become more politically savvy, in conversation with a transportation planner who’s determined to find a less tiring, more authentic approach to winning over clients and influencing others.
Guest expert:
Madeleine Wyatt is a professor at King’s Business School. Her research examines diversity at work and the role informal and political processes play in people’s rise into leadership.
Resources:
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