Research into politics in the workplace has shown time and again that women are far more interested in politics than their male counterparts. Not only is the academic literature clearly demonstrating this, seminars and conferences that I have presented to over the years have had a significantly higher number of female attendees. Indeed, many have been women’s networking groups, all keen to hear about politics in the workplace.
However, it is wrong to conclude that this is a gender bias. In fact, my research has revealed that this extra interest is stimulated by membership of a minority group. Those in the minority have to focus much more on their influencing skills and tactics to be able to get a fair hearing. A man in a female-dominated world is going to have to work hard to gain influence, as the group dynamic conspires (naturally) against him. Find out more about this research critical influencing skills
Put another way, if you are an outsider, you will have to be able to use the most effective influencing skills to prevail. Have you experienced this? It would be great if you could spare a moment to share your thoughts here!
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