Powerplay

WolfenSatyr · 2017-07-06T22:55:54+00:00

CYA. As in Cover Your Ass.

When I have to deal with a predominately female environment and/or female superiors I follow the following rules.

1 - Never be alone with one of them. Make sure that all meetings and discussions involve at least one more person or are held in the open so that passers-by can see what is going on. If it's a disciplinary action, ask another manager of equal level to be present.

2 - Just do work. That means no gossip, no covert co-worker gatherings, no drama involvement. It's alright to do drinks after work, but absolutely don't get drunk. Be the most sober person among them. Arrive alone, leave alone. No rides or favors.

3 - Get a sneaky one touch recording app for your phone. In the event that you get caught up in office bullshit (and it'll happen despite your efforts) hit record and keep your composure. If it's serious enough contact a legal professional afterwards.

4 - Be friendly, but not friends. If you become a work hermit you fall into creepy territory and end up being an easy scapegoat. This means saying hi and making pleasant idle chatter. Take as little interst in their personal crap as possible. Knowing the name of their kids? That's okay. Knowing that daughter Kayleigh is having boyfriend issues. Not okay.

5 - Do no favors. If approached about helping with a project that you have had no previous input politely turn it down. If it comes from a superior, then ask to be copied via email and make sure it outlines what's to be done by you and the date upon which it's due.

6 - Get everything documented. That means backing up all email messages, saving written notes, making copies of all work done. There will come a time that someone will throw you under the bus and lie about your involvement. Be able to gather up all important related material in a moment's notice and bring it to any meeting that may be called. Do not give your documentation right away. Simply say that you can have it on their desk withing a half hour of the end of the meeting.

Title	Powerplay
Author	futahchad
Upvotes	2
Comments	2
Date	July 6, 2017 8:59 PM UTC (9 years ago)
Subreddit	Posted in /r/askTRP
Original Link	https://old.reddit.com/r/asktrp/comments/6loslm/powerplay/
Archive Link	https://theredarchive.com/r/askTRP/powerplay.93741 https://theredarchive.com/post/93741

Comments