Episode Summary:
In this episode of Mondays with Mike, Mike Staver tackles a tough workplace dilemma: How can you get ahead in a company where office politics seem more important than performance? He acknowledges that succeeding in such an environment is extremely difficult and even questions whether staying in such a company long-term is the best decision. However, if leaving isn’t an option, Mike advises understanding how the “game” is played while maintaining integrity. He emphasizes the importance of elite performance—delivering results consistently—and strategically presenting those achievements when the time is right. Ultimately, success comes from a mix of skill, execution, and knowing how to navigate the company culture.
Key Takeaways:
- Consider whether it’s worth staying. If office politics outweigh performance, think about whether this is the right place for you.
- Understand how the game is played. Every company has an internal culture—learn the unwritten rules without compromising ethics.
- Performance is key. You must be an elite performer, consistently executing at a high level, to stand out.
- Take initiative. Simply waiting for a promotion won’t work—proactively demonstrate your value.
- Present your case strategically. When the time is right, clearly show how you’ve delivered results and why you deserve to advance.
Notable Quotes:
- “It’s very hard to get ahead in a company where office politics matter more than performance.”
- “Understand how the game is played at your company without compromising your values.”
- “Take care of your own house first—execute at the highest level before expecting to move up.”
- “You won’t get promoted just for showing up; you have to take initiative and deliver results.”
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