ABSTRACT
A survey report from the Roffey Park Management Institute confirmed that politics was a central feature of organizational life. A total of 24 per cent of respondents said that it was the norm in their organizations, 70 per cent said that political behaviour had increased; 45 per cent admitted engaging in it, giving significant reasons for doing so; and 45 per cent considered it to be essential in order to get things done within the organization. Only 3 per cent reported that they engaged in politicking because they enjoyed it, which was the same figure
as those wishing to attain power and influence people (Holbeche and McCartney, 2002). It has been noted that a common trait amongst those who do not progress up the organization, despite their potential, is a belief that their ability and performance will shine through. They feel that they can keep their head down, get on with their jobs, and are not required to do anything more. However, it seems, if you want to get on, you need to engage in politicking, and opting out is not an option.
