Political Dilemmas at Work: How to Maintain Your Integrity and Further Your Career

Decide on Your Approach to This Dilemma

When you face a political dilemma, you have a choice about how best to respond. Some dilemmas you can opt to fight head on; while others might require more subtle handling. Once you have considered all the features of the dilemma and looked at the facts and the potential consequences, you may decide to take no action at all. Political competence is learned through deliberate thinking and action. When you have considered all the details, you have to make a deliberate choice about how best to approach this dilemma.

If you opt to fight, your action is likely to encourage your opponent (the consultant) to fight back. You have the right to do this on behalf of your organization if that is what you feel is right; however, you also have to be ready for the consultant’s response. While you may not need to be a military strategist, you need to have all your stakeholders in position. Your power should be consolidated, enabling you to move the consultant into the position you feel is more appropriate for the needs of your organization.

Alternatively, you may opt to do nothing and just get through the experience. This could be the right decision for you in the short term, but you need to consider the longer-term impact on your career and well-being. Being pushed into the political backwater will not enhance your own feelings of self-worth and confidence. If your neglect causes long-term damage to the organization, this could also have a negative ...