Clock In with Emily Durham Surviving Office Politics: What to do (and AVOID)
Nov 19, 2025
Dive into the murky waters of office politics where high school dynamics reign. Discover unwritten rules like prioritizing perception over raw productivity. Learn how to navigate gossip by keeping your cards close and choosing your workplace friendships wisely. Find out how to document feedback to create transparency and know the signs it’s time to seek new opportunities. This guide equips you to maintain your sanity and career respect without losing your peace!
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Perception Often Beats Productivity
- Perception matters more than pure productivity in most workplaces.
- Meritocracy often fails and 'popularity' drives promotions more than output.
Early Internship Email Misstep
- On her first internship day Emily emailed a director without looping her boss and got pulled aside.
- That taught her directness can politically ruffle people even when logical.
Volunteer For Small Extra Work
- Do take on small cross-functional tasks and avoid rigidly refusing work outside your job.
- Observe senior coworkers you respect and mimic how they operate to fit your company culture.