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Quick
Quiz: How Much Political Power Do You Have?
Adapted from Secrets to Winning at Office Politics by
Marie G. McIntyre, Ph.D.
“Political power” refers to your ability to accomplish goals at work,
both in terms of your job and your career. The results you produce,
your reputation, your relationships with people – these and many other
factors contribute to your political power. The chart below invites you
to rate yourself on some Political Power Boosters.
In
the table below, rate yourself on the factors that contribute to
political power.
|
Political Power Boosters |
Definitely |
Somewhat |
Not Really |
|
Results:
I produce results that provide a clear benefit to my
organization. |
3 |
2 |
1 |
|
Reputation:
Key decision-makers are aware of my contributions. |
3 |
2 |
1 |
|
Knowledge:
I possess information that is quite useful to my organization. |
3 |
2 |
1 |
|
Attitude:
I am viewed by almost everyone as helpful and cooperative. |
3 |
2 |
1 |
|
Networks:
I know many people throughout my organization.
|
3 |
2 |
1 |
|
Empathy:
People come to me for help with their problems or concerns |
3 |
2 |
1 |
|
Inclusion:
I often try to include other people in my decisions or projects. |
3 |
2 |
1 |
|
Detachment:
I am known as someone who can see situations objectively. |
3 |
2 |
1 |
|
Total Points |
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Place your total points on the continuum
below.
8
16
24
Low Political Power
High Political Power
If
you score on the high end of the scale, you probably possess sufficient
political power to accomplish your goals. Good for you! You should be
able to get a lot accomplished. A moderate score indicates that you
can increase your political power if you choose to do so. But if your
score is below 16, you definitely have some work to do.
§ To
enhance your political power, identify categories for improvement. What
specific steps would help to increase your score in those areas? What
could you change about your actions at work or interactions with
others?
§ Consider
how you use your time and energy at work. Do you concentrate on
activities that will help you achieve your goals or waste energy on
complaining, gossiping, or marginal activities? How might you need to
refocus?
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