Career Blockers, SPF50 At Work
It is tough to succeed in any organisation, even when we know we have what it takes. We may believe that when it comes to success, everything is possible if you work hard and deliver on expectations. So, when success eludes us, we blame ourselves first and perhaps other areas like company strategy, economic climate, department changes, etc. One area we rarely look at when trying to understand why we fail to scale is closer and more serious. The human career blocker!
The career blocker thoroughly intercepts your opportunities in more ways than you can imagine because they hide in plain sight—right next to you—a colleague, manager, manager’s manager, etc.
The career blocker quickly assesses you to decide how they will act. In the first place, you are not aware. Secondly, they may have access to decision-makers or information about opportunities in the firm because they are your manager or a well-known and popular colleague. Their advantages and access ensure they know everything that happens in your role, and you cannot get ahead without their “approval.” They are the SPF50+ of the workplace.
1) Friendly Exclusion – Watch the blockers behaviour. For example, notice how they treat you when decision-makers or senior managers are around. They will not invite you to access their circle or introduce you. The blocker practices “friendly exclusion”. You must speak up and introduce yourself to take charge of your narrative.
2) Public Derision – The blockers belittle you in a manner so subtle that you almost believe you imagined it. They want to erode the respect you have earned. For example, they may share with junior staff anecdotes about you that may have happened in a social setting and are not flattering. Beware of your behaviour, remembering that even at team drinks, you are still working.
4) Interventionist Behaviour – Note how blockers are always asking for information on what you are working on and how they can speak to so and so for you. Ask yourself, why are they so keen to “help”? Find ways to discourage interventionist behaviour, such as sharing less of the specifics and politely declining offers of “help.” Be aware when picking your battles but advocate for yourself.
5) Dirty advice – If the blocker is more senior than you, they may be concerned that you have the same potential to grow and/or surpass them. They will interrupt when you speak out in meetings, capture your narrative, and speak to others about you and your plans without permission. This makes you unseen or appear to be lacking leadership skills. Ensure you are not isolated and the blocker is not overseeing your communication. Do not stop talking.
We believe that alongside learning your job, studying the politics, personalities and power at play in the workplace is vital. Company strategy, the economic climate, etc., can influence your success, but the career blocker is closer to you hence more impactful. Do not forget to focus on fighting for what matters to you and deserves your energy.
Be like the meerkat: stand up, listen and look around every so often.
This article is not personal advice. The information contained in this article has been designed for educational and informational purposes only and not for your specific circumstance. It is provided solely to enable you to make your own choices. No material in this article is a substitute for professional advice.
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