The Politics of Promotion: How High–Achieving Women Get Ahead and Stay Ahead

Praise for THE POLITICS OF PROMOTION

"If you′re one of those nice girls who thinks politics is a four–letter word, think again. From promotions to perks to plum assignments, savvy women know the path to success is paved by politics. The Politics of Promotion will help you to make workplace politics an integral part of your skill set without feeling as if you′ve compromised your integrity."
Lois P. Frankel, PhD, author of Nice Girls Don′t Get the Corner Office

"Bonnie Marcus has finally come out and said what needs to be said: self–promotion is a leadership skill! The Politics of Promotion should earn a place on every woman′s bookshelf. Marcus not only demonstrates why playing politics zestfully, skillfully and ethically is essential for women seeking to shape satisfying careers, she offers invaluable advice on how to do it. This book offers a perfect wake–up call for women who want to believe that working hard should be enough. It′s not. Bonnie Marcus shows you a better path."
Sally Helgesen, author of The Female Advantage; coauthor of The Female Vision

"The Politics of Promotion is a savvy book, full of advice for ambitious women. Bonnie Marcus explains that success follows not only from competently fulfilling one′s job description but even more from successfully negotiating company politics. To help women navigate these complexities, she offers a wealth of advice backed by examples gleaned from her long experience as a corporate executive and a career coach. Marcus provides the crucial insights that business schools leave out of the curriculum."
Alice Eagly, coauthor of Through the Labyrinth

"Sheryl Sandberg taught women about the importance of ′leaning in′ in order to get ahead in the workplace. In The Politics of Promotion, Bonnie Marcus gives women practical tips on how to be savvy about the way they lean in to avoid potential landmines, how to navigate the realities of their workplace, and position themselves for success without compromising their feminine traits or integrity."
John Gerzema, author of The Athena Doctrine

"The Politics of Promotion totally reframes the concept of office politics. Bonnie Marcus clearly and practically explains how the work environment must be understood for anyone hoping to advance their careers. Through research, case studies, and a variety of powerful vignettes, the book offers insights for all individuals women and men who seek to be more successful, eliminate roadblocks, and deliver for themselves, their teams, and their organizations."
Susan B. Chodakewitz, President, Tetra Tech AMT; Chair of the Board, Women in Aerospace

Introduction xi

1 Politics in the Workplace: How It Works and How Women Fit into It 1

2 The Mirror: Your Tool for Savvy Self–Promotion 39

3 The Magnifying Glass: Observing Workplace Dynamics 67

4 The Pass Go and Collect $200 Card: Strategic Networking 101

5 The Get Out of Jail Free Card: Sponsorship 133

6 The GPS: Executive Coaching 153

7 Staying Ahead 187

8 Moving Forward: Are You Ready? 207

Notes 217

Acknowledgments 223

About the Author 225

Index 227

BONNIE MARCUS is founder and president of Women′s Success Coaching, a company that assists professional women in successfully navigating the workplace and advancing their careers. Forbes.com honored Women′s Success Coaching three years in a row as one of the Top 100 websites for Professional Women. Bonnie started her own corporate career at an entry–level position and worked her way up to the top of a national company. As an award–winning entrepreneur, a contributing writer for Forbes and Business Insider, and a much sought–after professional speaker, Bonnie shares her message globally.

For more information, please visit www.politicsofpromotion.com.