Diabolical Political Skills
John 17:20-26
Illustration
by Glenn E. Ludwig

To believe, to really believe, that we are joined to Christ and to one another and can find wholeness and oneness in that union, puts us in direct opposition to the preaching of the world around us. In a mail advertisement their was a book titled "The Black Book of Executive Politics" and was written anonymous author. This is actually what the advertisement said about this book. Written by a world-class corporate infighter who prefers to remain anonymous, this priceless volume contains 87 street-smart hints, tips, short-cuts, ploys, strategies and approaches for surviving -- and making it big in the company political arena ... People call company politics a "game." But it's a game you have to play, like it or not, if you want to survive and succeed.

Listen to the contents of this book that is going to put me at the top of the corporate ladder:

  • Style -- rather than performance -- is the key factor in determining who makes the boardroom.
  • When teamwork isn't the answer
  • How to make points with the boss without being obviously on-the-make.
  • How to learn needed inside information without being unethical. 

And it goes on and on. The letter inside the ad states: "I'm talking about truly Machiavellian stuff here. I know it all sounds a bit paranoid. But there are times when a little paranoia can give you the backside protection you need. You'll get the latest and most diabolical thinking on these political skills." And then he ends with two seemingly contradictory thoughts. First, he plants the seed about the opposition: "How many people in your company are sending away for their copies of the Black Book?" And then he said, that if I act right away, I'll get a free copy of "Creating a Loyal Staff." A loyal staff?

Let’s see. First, I’m suppose to learn to beat them up in the corporate arena. Secondly, I am to be paranoid that my colleagues might read the book before I do and so have the scheming edge on me, so I had better get the book quickly. Then I’m to read the free book “Creating A Loyal Staff.” Give me a break.

CSS Publishing Company, Walking To, Walking With, by Glenn E. Ludwig