Summary
In this episode of Ask Christa, Christa Dhimo addresses a listener's concerns about office politics, emphasizing the importance of understanding influence in the workplace. Christa defines office politics, differentiating between toxic and constructive politics, and provides actionable strategies for managing toxic environments. She encourages listeners to focus on company objectives and offers practical exercises to navigate office politics effectively. Additionally, she shares valuable resources for further learning.
Key Takeaways
• Office politics is about influence, not just power.
• Experience in different industries can provide valuable perspectives.
• Not all office politics are toxic; some are constructive.
• Focus on company objectives as a starting place to manage toxic politics.
• Identify how you want to operate in a workplace environment.
• Develop an action plan to address toxic office politics.
• Resources like articles and videos can aid in understanding office politics.
• Engaging with office politics is necessary.
Additional Resources
Definition of Politics: politics. (2025). In Merriam-Webster Dictionary. https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/politics
Article: Postma, N. (2021, July 14). You Can’t Sit Out Office Politics. https://hbr.org/2021/07/you-cant-sit-out-office-politics
Ginny Clarke videos on Office Politics:
1: Ginny Clarke. (2024, December 16). Office Politics: How to rise above while getting ahead [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JPynuXrbFCQ
2: Ginny Clarke. (2025, January 20). Office politics: the game you must learn to play [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4aml7vn020U
Video Chapters
00:00 Introduction
00:39 Listener Question
02:10 The Value of a Different Perspective (from different places)
03:48 Politics Are About Influence
04:45 Not All Politics Are Toxic, But When They ARE Toxic, They’re REALLY Toxic
08:34 Ways to Manage Office Politics
12:00 Additional Resources
14:30 Wrap Up and Submitting Your Questions
15:01 Contact and Booking Information
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Disclaimer
The Ask Christa! show is designed to provide accurate, reliable, and practical insights into common business challenges and workplace issues. Dr. Christa Dhimo stands by the information she shares and the resources she provides; however, every situation is unique. Listeners are encouraged to use this podcast as a helpful resource while seeking additional professional advice when needed.
As such, the content of this podcast does not constitute legal, financial, medical, or other professional advice, and should not be relied upon as a substitute for guidance from qualified professionals who can consider your specific circumstances. Ask Christa! and its host disclaim liability for actions taken solely on the basis of the information provided here, especially if taken out of context.
