I would suggest that if you have any friends who work for either a state or federal government pick their brains. I spent several years in public service and y

I would suggest that if you have any friends who work for either a state or federal government pick their brains. I spent several years in public service and you would be amazed at the level of workplace politics that surrounds the business of politics. I refer to myself as a reformed public servant because I try to do what is right for the users of any service and for the company. I rarely worry about the agendas that drive most politically driven decisions. When you put politics first you always have your eyes on the toes you could step on before you have your eyes on the recipient of your products/services. My experience is that government employees do this exceeding well. As an aside, government employees are also the best at being able to talk and never really say a damn thing. It is truly a skill that you pick up even if you do not want that skill in your toolbox. It will serve people well if they have to be political in their organizations to advance. I also have found in my career that if I hire people who can take my place then I was able to move up. Many times bosses won't promote someone they would really like to promote because there is nobody to fill his or her position if promoted. Always hire someone capable of replacing you. It takes courage but it is the right thing to do for the company and in reality it makes you look better in the long run. Never sacrifice yo ur integrity for the sake of workplace politics or advancement. In the long run it will bite you in the butt. Take on projects that are a bit outside of your comfort zone and continue to work on your own professional development as well as those around you. If you do these things, hopefully the politics will not be as necessary as you think.