In this blog post we will look at what we mean by political mistakes. Firstly, let us remind ourselves about what I mean by being politically savvy: (this definition is taken from my book ‘how to make partner and still have a life’) ]
I’m Heather Townsend, author of Poised for Partnership and co-author of How to Make Partner & Still Have a Life. I’m the leading global expert in what it takes to move from senior fee earner to partner . Here are 5 ways to work with me.
Being politically savvy is a key skill for climbing the career ladder in professional services. However, this should not be confused with being ‘political’, which is a polite term for not being trusted or lacking substance. Let’s go back to what we mean by political mistakes. These come in a variety of sizes and shapes. Such as:
- Saying the wrong thing, either because of ignorance or because you couldn’t help yourself
- Creating rivalries, conflict or tension with influential people in the firm
- Acting inappropriately with clients, introducers or firm members.
Can these political mistakes wreck my career?
The question is whether these political mistakes can wreck your career. The answer is most definitely. We can all point to folklore in our firms about high-flyers who came a cropper after saying the wrong thing to the wrong person.
Or massive falls from grace when a new senior partner gets appointed. What’s your experience of seeing others make political mistakes? Click here to download my free guide to not just surviving but thriving, despite your firm’s politics. (email required)
Read more about how to avoid making political mistakes in your firm:
In my 12 ways to navigate & survive your firm’s politics blogpost, you can read about how to navigate and survive the politics in your firm.
Also check out:
How to Deal with Professional Jealousy
How to deal with a tough work colleague
Partner Track Politics – transitioning from second in command to becoming the boss
If you want help to do the right things that will get you to partner, look at my Progress to Partner Academy
I’m Heather Townsend, author of Poised for Partnership and co-author of How to Make Partner & Still Have a Life. I’m the leading global expert in what it takes to move from senior fee earner to partner . Here are 5 ways to work with me.
.
