In a perfect world we would all get along and there would be no disagreement of any kind, but since the chances of that happening are about as good as you getting struck by lightning while cashing in your lottery ticket, there is unfortunately such a thing as office politics. Office politics usually boils down to simple disagreements between you and a co-worker, or worse yet, a figurehead. Sometimes it can be so frustrating you just want to scream at the top of your lungs and tell the other party just how wrong they are and how right you are. This won’t work!

Take it from me, when it comes to office politics, the trick to coming out smelling like a rose is to not take anything personally. There’s been many times where I just wanted to grab up the disagreeing party and shake them as hard as I can until they see the light, but I know this would not resolve a thing. Instead, I focus on what is most important for everyone, the business.

When you do butt heads with someone at your workplace, which you eventually will, try talking to them about what is ultimately best for the business. This way you and your office counterpart will avoid any meaningless chatter over what color is a personal favorite for the upcoming flyer and instead focus on what color is best for the business and ultimately all parties involved. Go over all the pros and cons, but always stick to business. It’s much easier for your office enemy to admit defeat if they think they are doing so to help the business.

This strategy keeps you on the right track and ensures the best decision is being made. Just remember, we are all human and if in your discussions you find that you are the one that needs to admit defeat, then east your humble pie and get on with business. Life is too short to waste on meaningless office politics.