many people are still unable or unwilling - to "play the game."
"People assume that office politics involves some manipulative (工于心计的) behavior," says Deborah Comer, an assistant professor of management at Hofstra University. "But politics derives from the word 'polite'. It can mean lobbying and forming associations. It can mean being kind and helpful, or even trying, to please your superior, and then expecting something in return."
In fact, today, experts define office politics as proper behavior used to pursue one's own self-interest in the workplace. In many cases, this involves some form of socializing within the office environment - not just in large companies, but in small workplaces as well.
"The first thing people are usually judged on is their ability to perform well on a consistent basis," says Neil P. Lewis, a management psychologist. "But if two or three candidates are up for a promotion, each of whom has reasonably similar ability, a manager is going to promote the person he or she likes best. It's simple human nature."
Yet, psychologists say, many employees and employers have trouble with the concept of politics in the office. Some people, they say, have an idealistic vision of work and what it takes to succeed. Still others associate politics with flattery 奉承), fearful that, if they speak up for themselves, they may appear to be flattering their boss for favors.
Experts suggest altering this negative picture by recognizing the need for some self-promotion.
16. "Office politics" (Line 2, Para. 4) is used in the passage to refer to .
A) the political views and beliefs of office workers
B) the interpersonal relationships within a company
C) the various qualities required for a successful career
D) the code of behavior for company staff
17. To get promoted, one must not only be competent but .
A) avoid being too outstanding
B) get along well with his colleagues
C) honest and loyal to his company
D) give his boss a good impression
18. Why are many people unwilling to "play the game" (Line 4, Para. 5)?
A) They are not good at manipulating colleagues.
B) They feel that such behavior is unprincipled.
C) They think the effort will get them nowhere.
D) They believe that doing so is impractical.
19. The author considers office politics to be &n
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