Leadership in Action: Constructive Politics - Essential to Leadership

Constructive Politics: Essential to Leadership

Philippe Rosinski

Go into any organization and say the word politics, and you will see most people shake their heads disdainfully. It has a largely negative connotation, suggesting hidden agendas, manipulation, deceit, alienation, and jockeying for position. At worst, it is seen as destructive; at best, a necessary evil.

In my view, however, organizational politics does not have to be destructive. In fact, it is fundamental, essential to having impact as a leader. In order for it to be constructive, though, leaders must put aside their negative view, approach it systematically, and engage in it with a sense of purpose.

In my work coaching executives and senior management teams, I have found that ...