Includes bibliographical references (pages 157-163) and index.

Why we don't move ahead : politics -- The how and why of positive politics -- Becoming savvy -- Surviving the ebbs and flows of power -- Taking things at face value : trust, but verify -- Mapping power : who's in and who's out -- Managing perceptions -- Reputation and brand management : what's your story? -- The spoken word : gender and culture issues -- The politics of performance management -- Power, politics, and sex.

Companies that embrace rather than deny corporate politics and learn to use it positively can boost talent retention and increase diversity. The book reveals how to navigate a successful course through the corridors of power with strategies for common scenarios such as managing new bosses, recognizing barriers in selling ideas or getting promoted, surviving racism and sexual harassment. It also shows professionals how to create a personal power map and harness the power of positive politics without compromising their integrity or values. It includes compelling stories and case studies about the politically aware and unaware that the author gathered from executives across industries and cultures in Asia and the West.