#27: Navigating Office Politics
Jun 18, 2025You’re not imagining it—someone else is getting the visibility you deserve, and decisions are happening without you in the room. In this powerful podcast episode of Promoted: Stop Doubting, Start Leading, Karen Gombault dives into the misunderstood world of office politics and reveals how newly promoted leaders can navigate power dynamics with clarity, confidence, and integrity.
If you’ve been avoiding the “games” in hopes of staying authentic, this episode will show you how to play smart. Karen offers three strategic mindset shifts that help you build influence, increase visibility, and forge meaningful alliances at the leadership table.
This is essential listening for every ambitious woman navigating the real power structures behind the scenes at work.
5 KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Politics is just influence in motion. Avoiding it won’t protect you—it will sideline you. Learn to observe and engage with the informal systems of power intentionally.
- Visibility is not vanity—it’s leverage. If you’re not speaking, someone else is shaping the narrative. Your voice is a strategic asset.
- Allies matter more than advocates. Sustainable influence comes from mutually beneficial relationships—not just having someone name-drop you in meetings.
- You don’t have to play dirty, but you do have to play smart. Influence can be ethical, human, and aligned with your leadership style.
- Silence costs you more than you think. Playing it safe by staying quiet can mean being left out of critical decisions.
“Politics is just influence in motion. You don’t have to play games—but you do have to play smart.” —Karen Gombault
Avoiding politics isn’t a neutral act—it’s a decision that shapes how others perceive your leadership. This episode gives you permission—and tools—to show up strategically, without compromising who you are.
RESOURCES & NEXT STEPS
Free Guide: Get Noticed – 20 Ways to Build Visibility at Work Without Feeling Self-Promotional → https://www.karengombault.com/getnoticed
🔥 Ready to go further?
Start with Catalyst – A focused 6-week coaching sprint to solve one real leadership challenge with strategy, momentum, and results.
Go deeper with 1:1 Executive Coaching – My high-level, science-backed coaching partnership to lead with unshakeable confidence and protect your energy while delivering at the top.
