Leaders often rely on their political skill (whether they are aware of it or not) to achieve work-related goals, manage work groups or teams, and navigate leadership challenges. To maximize the positive impact of political skill on others and on their organizations, it is recommended that leaders utilize four practices: social awareness, interpersonal influence, networking, and sincerity.
This white paper presents the results of research conducted by the Center for Creative Leadership (CCL®), as well as the work of other noted scholars, on political skill. It describes how leaders typically use these four practices to navigate complex challenges, and how this influences coworkers’ perceptions of a leader’s effectiveness. It also provides tools for self-assessment of strengths and development needs and suggestions for improving political skill.
