#214 Outsmarting Office Politics with Jennifer Selby Long – Part Two

So you finally quit that toxic job, only to find yourself in another workplace filled with the same drama. What gives? Leadership expert Jennifer Selby Long explains why office politics follow you wherever you go—and how to stop them from running your career. In this two-part series, we tackle power dynamics, corporate chaos, and the real reason some people seem to climb the ladder effortlessly while others get stuck. If you’re tired of feeling like a pawn in someone else’s game, this episode is for you. Key Highlights of Our Interview: Talent vs. Tactics: Why Performance Alone Doesn’t Guarantee Success “In corporate environments, it’s often not the most skilled or hardworking employees who thrive—it’s those adept at navigating office politics. Top performers may drive results, but their brilliance can threaten insecure leaders, creating a system where political tact outshines true talent.” The Right Culture for the Right Person “Some thrive in competitive political environments; others find them draining. The key is identifying whether your personal interests align with the culture around you. The fit matters more than fighting a system that may not suit you.” No Permanent Friends, No Permanent Enemies—Just Interests “Drawing from the wisdom of Martin Luther King’s attorney, Clarence Jones: the game of politics is about aligning interests, not forging everlasting alliances. Understanding this can shift how you approach your workplace dynamics.” Burnout and Disengagement: The Fallout of Neglecting Talent “When talent is neither respected nor recognized, it creates a workplace rife with disengagement and burnout. Organizations lose not just individuals but the potential for meaningful progress, leaving behind a culture where playing the game matters more than delivering value.” _________________________ Connect with us: Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Jennifer Selby Long ______________________ --**Chief Change Officer**-- Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself. Open a World of Deep Human Intelligence for Growth Progressives, Visionary Underdogs, Transformation Gurus & Bold Hearts. 6 Million+ All-Time Downloads. Reaching 80+ Countries Daily. Global Top 3% Podcast. Top 10 US Business. Top 1 US Careers. >>>100,000+ subscribers are outgrowing. Act Today.<<< --Chief Change Officer-- Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself. Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligence for Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep, Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts. EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist. 20 Million+ All-Time Downloads. 80+ Countries Reached Daily. Global Top 1% Podcast. Top 5 US Business. Top 1 US Careers. >>>180,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.<<<