Is the "queuing phenomenon" common in the workplace? As a newcomer in the workplace, should you "take sides"?

The phenomenon of "taking sides" in the workplace is a universal reality, though it often remains hidden beneath the surface. This behavior reflects a rational and strategic decision made by employees when they encounter the power dynamics and resource competition inherent in their work environment. In many cases, employees are drawn into what is commonly known as the "team phenomenon," where they find themselves aligned with one faction or another, sometimes involuntarily. The workplace, after all, is often fragmented into various factions and groups, each vying for influence, power, and control.

Within any department, there are usually multiple leaders, some officially appointed, and others who, though not formally recognized, hold significant sway over their colleagues. These unofficial leaders, often regular employees without formal titles, can amass a considerable following, and their influence frequently surpasses that of the nominal leaders. The dynamic between current leaders and former leaders, the interplay of power and influence among various levels of management, and the backing some leaders receive from higher-ups all contribute to a complex web of alliances and rivalries within the workplace. These factors create a fertile ground for the emergence of factions, each with its own agenda and followers.

The tendency to choose sides is not a new behavior. It is something we have engaged in since childhood, albeit in more benign forms. For instance, when asked as children, "Who do you love more, Dad or Mom?" we would often respond diplomatically with, "Both equally." This inclination to avoid explicit choices extends into adulthood, particularly in the workplace, where the stakes are much higher. The fear of offending colleagues or superiors often leads employees to keep their true loyalties hidden, preferring to navigate the workplace cautiously.

For newcomers entering the workplace, the question of whether to take sides is a challenging one. At this stage, it is generally wiser to remain neutral and avoid becoming entangled in the power struggles that are common in many organizations. A newcomer’s understanding of the workplace is limited; they only see a portion of the broader picture, often filtered through their own perceptions and what they are allowed to see. They might observe the factional struggles within a department but remain unaware of the broader strategies and decisions being made by senior management. The higher-ups in any organization are often engaged in their own power games, and their ultimate support may shift unexpectedly, influenced by factors that are not immediately visible to lower-level employees.

Given this uncertainty, it is nearly impossible for a newcomer to fully grasp the nuances of workplace politics or to make a "correct" choice when it comes to taking sides. The phenomenon of workplace factions is not only a rational existence but also an enduring one. No single faction can completely eliminate the influence or power of another in the short term, meaning that these power dynamics are likely to persist for the foreseeable future.

For those starting their careers, the wisest course of action is to maintain positive relationships across different factions without committing to any one group. This approach allows them to safeguard their interests while avoiding unnecessary conflicts. In the workplace, there are often disputes and power struggles that, while visible, are better left unspoken. As a newcomer, it is prudent to observe these dynamics without getting involved. When more experienced and possibly invited to join a faction, it is still advisable to remain cautious and avoid entangling oneself in the fray. The support and decisions of senior management can shift dramatically, sometimes overnight, rendering any prior alliances or commitments moot.

Ultimately, the ability to remain neutral and avoid the pitfalls of workplace politics can be seen as a form of wisdom. It allows individuals to protect themselves while navigating the complex and often unpredictable landscape of workplace relationships. In some cases, the best choice a person can make is to simply walk away, avoiding the turbulence of power struggles and leaving the factional battles behind.