Perpetual pushovers. Occasional bullies. Irritating interns. Sneaky saboteurs and prickly prima donnas. You get to work with them all, throughout your career. Such characters are so common in global office culture that they have also been the subject of several career-related books, advice columns and even television shows.
But the attention that rumour mongers, know-it-alls and killjoys receive doesn't mean there aren’t other professionals in your workplace who are worth getting to know. The trick is to sharpen your vision (and also your friend-making skills) and start climbing the corporate ladder. Based on some research and some inputs from people working in offices from Cuffe Parade to Kandivili, we found out the following four types of characters who can help you advance your career or simply make your workday a little easier. The Gatekeeper As with the biggest of governments, an organisation's most influential individuals are not always the highest-ranking or highest-profile employees. While some of your less savvy co-workers might take the ancient trick of flattering the higher-ups, the company's executive or 'administrative assistants' are often the ones who actually run much of the show, albeit behind the scenes. These professionals, mostly well-educated and clever, hold key information about the bosses' priorities and schedules (and mood swings). Having established a dosti with the these less-celebrated power players might come in handy when you're in a pinch and need to quickly squeeze in some face time with a manager. In your day to day office life, they can provide invaluable tips into when and when not to approach the big boss. The Grapevine Monitor We’re not talking about the bunch of high heels who gossip about the boss’s extra-marital affairs in the loo. Unlike that kind of dirt-disher who delights in spreading ‘juicy’ tales of trivial interoffice melodrama, the grapevine monitor is usually the ‘well-informed’ insider. Acutely aware of the office's relevant developments and political undercurrents, the grapevine monitor remains current on organisational issues by doing more listening than talking at the smokers’ gallery. Developing an ally in the information loop, who can filter the meaningful business-related information from the bakwaas; can be valuable in times of transition. For instance, the grapevine monitor may know of upcoming projects, budget cuts or resource restrictions before the information is distributed through official channels. Put simply, when significant changes are afoot, it never hurts to have a trustworthy friend with an ear to the ground. The Well-Connected Social Butterfly We're sure most of you must have imagined someone in your office who deserves the above title. For there is typically at least one individual in every company who seems to be a dost of everyone else. Acquaint yourself with this person. The well-connected social butterfly might also be a consummate team-builder who will never forget a face, name or detail. Aligning yourself with this Mr/Ms popular is particularly helpful if you are shy or new to an organisation. These expert communicators (and collaborators) can ease your adjustment and help you branch out by introducing you to staff members from other areas of the company. In addition, watching how the well-connected social butterfly operates can help you enhance your interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate with others. The cool-headed veteran Think Ishant Sharma taking tips from the Master Blaster. If you just thought this ‘veteran’ might be that white-bearded fellow with a paunch nominated for 'outstanding achievement award', drop the vision. The cool-headed is only recognised by experience and temperament. In times of high pressure and tight deadlines, this steady pro weathers the storm with efficiency and poise. Sage, calm and resourceful, the veteran has encountered difficult times in the past and is willing to share his or her survival tips on performing with grace when your rear is under fire. Whether you seek the gyaan as issues arise or he or she becomes a close mentor, this unflappable worker is worth emulating. Knowing which relationships to leverage in the workplace is as important as understanding which people to watch out for. Identify the heroes of your workplace and consider inviting one of them to lunch – it’s never too early or too late to start building these valuable contacts. Group Moderator for [EMAIL PROTECTED] [EMAIL PROTECTED] [EMAIL PROTECTED] Connect your World with Us join Now - http://groups.yahoo.com/group/dimpill_gang/join Affiliated group from dimpill_gang for Only Adult Mails - http://groups.yahoo.com/group/fantazies/join Affiliated group from dimpill_gang for Only Health and Food Mails - http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Health_and_Gourmet/join Now you can chat without downloading messenger. Go to http://in.messenger.yahoo.com/webmessengerpromo.php
