397. The psychology of office politics

The podcast explores the psychology behind office politics, particularly how it affects individuals in their twenties. It highlights the importance of understanding the formal hierarchy versus the informal network in a workplace, as well as recognizing the five main sources of workplace power: legitimate, reward, coercive, expert, and referent. The host introduces social exchange theory, explaining how balanced relationships of giving and receiving resources impact workplace dynamics, and how feeling excluded can erode mental health and performance. Competition in the workplace is examined, distinguishing between informational and emotional competition, and strategies are provided for dealing with undermining colleagues, including information tracking and strategic responses. The host also advises on the complexities of workplace gossip, advocating for positive gossip and offering career advice based on her own experiences, such as utilizing sick leave and avoiding burning bridges.