> I realize that some public discussions I had with them seem to have been more politically motivated than I realized at the time That's something I have also

> I realize that some public discussions I had with them seem to have been more politically motivated than I realized at the time That's something I have also struggled with repeatedly over the years. There are quite a lot of people who appear ignorant, needlessly antagonistic, and generally unlikable - yet they somehow mastered the art of getting a lot of support and sympathy. Often you realize too late that a pointless little discussion was actually a pretty good setup to gather support from the other people on the team. This is usually the moment where you discover that your opponent isn't as stupid as you always thought. I wish I had something more positive to say, but in my experience it makes little sense to go up against those people, mainly because they're simply better at manipulating everyone, but also because doing so will eat a lot of your time and energy for trying to beat them at their own game. In my experience there is often a reason why this kind of person works at your company: it's either because management failed at hiring decent people, or it's because they hired someone who actually reflects their own morals there. In any case, the company's culture has probably already been subverted. Staying away from these environments is more rewarding than adapting to them. > So is this a hopeless situation? I'm a bit hesitant to jump ship because my work history in the Valley hasn't been terrific. You know, it doesn't sound like you are working there for the awesome product and the great team experience to begin with. If that assumption is valid, I would suggest you start looking for another job immediately. What do you mean your work history isn't terrific? I believe you can always look for a startup with a concept that motivates you and simply jump onboard as long as it's a good personality match this time?