First of all, you sound like a nice person, with a...

2008-12-18T09:38:00.000-05:00

First of all, you sound like a nice person, with a good work ethic, principles, and integrity.

This particular blog was written for managers and wannabe managers because once someone decides to move into management, they must become adept at politics. If they are unable to function intelligently in a job which deals with some level of politics every day, their groups will suffer and they will be unable to perform their job.

It's great to believe in competency, integrity, and your princiles. You don't have to lose those things as you move up the ladder. But you need to become smart about people. Competency, hard work, and a pleasant demeanor might contain their own rewards, but many people would also like the type of reward that will help them support a family or pay the rent. And most people appreciate recognition and reward for what they contribute.

Do you think it's OK for undeserving peers to advance? That people with no integrity get promoted? That you'll be taken advantage of?

Well, I don't. Hence this blog.

No one has to "jump into politics" or spend all their time plotting career strategies. But generally some thought will have to be given to one's career sooner or later. It's unlikely you're going to just be handed your career by others. You're the captain of your own ship and it's hard to get where you want to go with no sense of direction and no rudder.

I'd be interested to see what think in ten years or so - in the meantime, I wish you every success.

Just remember that none of us need more unqualified, undeserving, unprincipled managers. That means people like you need the tools, knowledge, and desire to negotiate the pitfalls that surround becoming a successful manager...

- Linda

I'm young and, presumably, naiveI hesitate to jump...

2008-12-17T22:48:00.000-05:00

I'm young and, presumably, naive

I hesitate to jump into the arena of office politics. I just want to perform my job to the best of my ability. I want to create products that make the world a better place.

I hesitate at the idea of my co-workers being "rivals." Sure, there will be times when undeserving peers advance within the organization. Of course, there are people without integrity. Undoubtedly I will be taken advantage of.

I say, so what? Following one's principles is its own reward. Allowing the actions of others to "eat at you forever" is a fruitless preoccupation. I dread the day when I devote my attention to the vicissitudes of the career ladder.

Regarding promotions, salary increases, and accolades: Perhaps I'm showing my immaturity, but I believe that consistent competency, hard work, and a pleasant demeanor delivers its own rewards.

Comments on PRACTICAL QA: NO PLACE FOR BOY SCOUTS

First of all, you sound like a nice person, with a...

I'm young and, presumably, naiveI hesitate to jump...