Companies of all sizes invest a lot in building a system that works. Some go as far as creating a 100-page handbook to serve as a guide for their employees. All these are in a bid to create an organisational culture. I've had the opportunity to work in three great organisations in Nigeria, and I can boldly state that the culture of a company is greatly influenced by the culture within the larger society. The same 'politics' and 'cabalism' we witness and often complain about in society exist in the workplace.
Hence, thinking you've escaped the reality of the world within the hours you're at work is only a noble dream. It's like the work-life balanciaga (balancing) discourse. For me, one is a subset of the other, and sometimes there's barely anything you can do. We don't always need balance! Or maybe we do.
Equality in the workplace is a joke to me. As far as hierarchies exist, equality remains blurry, and maybe that's just how things should be. Let's be real, you don't expect someone who has been in a company for 20 years to be treated the same way as someone who resumed nine months ago! Stop playing.
I am not endorsing inequality, but I am pointing out the fact that it will be difficult to establish it. You see those cabals at work that you dislike and sometimes pray that God should scatter them; they will not scatter! If at all they scatter, it implies the birth of a new cabal. Working is like playing chess; the rules may be different, but it's still a game. Also, remember that loyalty is usually a means to an end. When things change, people will cross the carpet. I've seen work besties turn out to be the worst of enemies at work. One thing I always tell people is that people are watching you. Perception at work sometimes counts more than how great you are at executing your tasks. It may even be your saving grace during appraisals. I'm sure you're probably wondering what the way out is. A part of me is suggesting that you ask the Indaboski Pahose, the Pandemic, and Pandemonium, as he has all the answers!
Navigating workplace politics doesn't have a one-size-fits-all solution, as cultures differ. I'll only share things I believe have worked for me. I'll start by saying that perception sometimes is reality at work. Sell yourself as a great person or someone that can be relied on at work. Also, go the extra mile by being so good that you become relevant. This will put you in a good spot and, technically, in most people's good books. By implication, some people in their respective cabals will want to protect you. In other words, the King of Boys will want to protect you!
Stay neutral. Being neutral can be your saving grace. There'll be times when your opinion on a seemingly small issue could bring hell to you at work. Personally, I either stay silent or craft my sentences carefully. I also try to ensure that my deeds are consistent with my actions. Not every battle is yours to fight. People are watching you. Freedom of speech doesn't guarantee freedom after speech! Also note that there'll be cases where you must stand your ground.
What's your social capital like at work? Some of those people you tag "touch not" got there through good deeds. It's not always a case of connection. They brought something to the table that's valuable to the company. You must learn to build valuable relationships at your workplace. It's very frustrating to work in an environment where you feel left out or when you don't have people you can speak freely with. I get that the culture in some organisations is very messed up, but there are also cases where employees don't fully understand how formal and informal networks work.
Set boundaries. Again, set boundaries. The goal is not to be everybody's friend. Nope, that doesn't make sense. People can tell when they've overstepped, and some will want to test you. Position yourself in such a way that your colleagues can see your standards. No go de zu zu! Let them know. Say it, act it. Try to pray and fast too. I'm not even joking. It's crazy how we're able to criticise the government and our leaders, but we put up with the same issues at work. Well, I guess it's because we want to protect our daily bread! If you're reading this and you're part of the "principalities and powers" in your office, I want you to know that YOUR CUP GO FULL ONE DAY, and you go collect woto woto! Put differently, #EndSars. Nigerians can relate. If you cannot relate to this article, you no Sabi wetin God don do for you!
Finally, workplace politics will never end, but it doesn't have to be oppressive.