Office politics are common in many workplaces. They might involve gossiping co-workers, excluding people from key discussions or managers playing favorites. Sometimes, office politics arise due to differing personalities. Other times, they’re due to unclear expectations or a lack of communication.
Lolly Daskal, a renowned leadership coach, understands the negative impacts of office politics. They can lead to lower morale and decreased productivity and even cause people to leave your organization. She says that while you may not be able to eliminate office politics, you can diffuse tense situations by using 5 simple words: “How can we find common ground?”
In this issue of PromoPro Daily, we share Daskal’s thoughts on why these words are so powerful and why leaders should use them more often.
You foster collaboration. By seeking common ground, you encourage teamwork, Daskal says. This can help you reach mutually beneficial solutions by breaking down silos and strengthening relationships. When everyone feels like they have a voice in the problem-solving and decision-making, it helps create a shared sense of ownership in the outcome.
You promote empathy. When you want to encourage more compassionate and less hostile interactions, you need to know where the other person is coming from. Asking this question helps you put yourself in their shoes and can help create trust.
You uncover shared objectives. When office politics are in play, it’s easy to forget that you’re all working toward the same goal. Daskal recommends identifying those shard goals to help unite your team and drive progress.
You allow space to cool down. Office politics can bring out the worst in people. When you ask what everyone has in common, Daskal says it allows those heated emotions to settle. It helps people step back, take a deep breath and approach the situation in a calmer place.
You open the door to productive conversations. Asking “How can we find common ground?” is a great way to start constructive discussions. Daskal says this is because it helps all parties feel heard and valued.
Instead of letting office politics hinder collaboration and mutual respect within your team, ask the powerful question, “How can we find common ground?” It’s a simple but effective way to shift the focus from competition to cooperation.
Compiled by Audrey Sellers
Source: Lolly Daskal is the founder and CEO of Lead From Within. She’s a bestselling author and a renowned executive leadership coach.
