Entering the corporate world and being a success is the ultimate ambition of every youngster and this is the only motivation while going through the various stages of secondary education. It promises a world of prosperity, the realization of dreams and the key to a fulfilling life.

Having influential contacts are needed to facilitate the entry into this coveted world

Entering this world is not easy in today’s competitive environment and many factors like high grades, being affiliated with a reputable university and the most important factor, having influential contacts are needed to facilitate the entry into this coveted world

It takes time to comprehend the culture and the working style of peers, hence the first few weeks are simply spent in a kind of a daze, taking every smile and kind word at face value.

It takes time to comprehend the culture and the working style of peers

Upon entering one is mesmerized by the glitter, the robust activity and the attractions it can offer, like travel, stay in high end hotels and other related perks. One is in a bit of a daze with so many new people to get accustomed to and a totally different environment to get adjusted into. It takes time to comprehend the culture and the working style of peers, hence the first few weeks are simply spent in a kind of a daze, taking every smile and kind word at face value.

When one gets settled and the honeymoon period is over one is slowly but surely made aware that all that glitters is not gold and there are many formidable challenges. Those who are absolutely new to this world, unfortunately do not realize soon enough that taking people at face value can have serious repercussions and there are very few, if any whose actions are not motivated by some political agenda. Corporate politics is perhaps even more dire than the politics of the country, as that does not take a person by surprise, however in this case a trusting person is only wiser after the rug has been pulled away from under his feet and he is left gaping.

Aspiring for genuine relationships in the corporate world is very naïve, as everybody is first and foremost for himself, his recognition and his advancement. On has to be perpetually on one’s guard and looking over one’s shoulder, in order to sabotage any political action that might be brewing up. It is not advisable to simply relax and focus on one’s work, as being productive is not the only key to success, but playing the right cards and being aware of the political moves, even before they are made.

There are systems in place, which are supposedly there to provide a fair hearing to all and ensure that the ethical guidelines are being complied with, however one tends to wonder at their transparency and worth, as very often they merely entail a long never ending cycle of emails, which basically do not resolve much and just keeps going in circles, with the complainant in most cases being the loser.

The advice to new comers from those who have spent time and closely scrutinized the corporate world, would be to ensure that while staying positive it is advisable to be on one’s guard, form cordial but not candid relationships, as the corporate world is a ruthless place and in the relentless pursuit of success, betraying confidences and sabotaging the achievements of others is considered a professional move and not an act of treachery.