To make effective use of organizational politics, leaders must be aware of specific political tactics and strategies. Ethical political behaviors can be divided into three related groups: tactics and strategies aimed at (1) gaining power, (2) building relationships with superiors and coworkers, and (3) avoiding political blunders. All of these political approaches help the leader gain or retain power and successfully manage stressful work environments. As defined by a group of researchers, political skill is a constructive force.

Cultivating friendly, cooperative relationships with powerful organizational members and outsiders can make the leader’s cause much easier to advance. Developing power contacts is a focused type of social networking. A high-level political strategy is to do whatever the political environment demands to attain your goals. In this way, you gain the support of decision makers. Political correctness involves being careful not to offend or slight anyone, and being extra civil and respectful.

A natural inclination for most people is to resist change, so the person who steps forward first to accept reasonable changes will acquire some political capital. A useful tactic for developing a positive relationship with your manager is to ask about ways to improve your performance. Look for ways to make a stronger contribution to the group. Organizational politics involves building positive relationships with network members who can be helpful now or later, including subordinates, coworkers, external customers, and suppliers.

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