Historically, many women have been excluded from informal spaces where key decisions are made: private dinners, exclusive men's clubs, soccer games, WhatsApp groups for leaders, late after-work gatherings, etc. These are moments when loyalties are formed, information is shared, and opportunities are distributed. It is not just a matter of physical presence, but of understanding that the power game is also played there. dynamics, often labeled as “political games,” have been presented to us as alien or even contrary to our values of transparency and collaboration.
Recognizing their existence and learning to manage them with integrity is key to exercising inclusive leadership.
Complaining is of little use.
If we want to influence the decision-making tables where the direction of the organization is defined, we must adapt and learn to play the game, with consistency and principles.
- Understanding the unspoken rules: recognizing that internal promotion depends as much on technical competence as on visibility generated in informal spaces.
- Participate with integrity: engage in those brief encounters—a coffee, a greeting in the hallway, or a spontaneous phone call—by showcasing our talent and building trust.
- Build authentic networks: cultivate alliances based on mutual support and respect, not opportunistic favors.
Mastering this “strategic networking” does not mean giving in to internal politics, but rather claiming our place. Because, in order to change the rules from within, we must first know how to play by them, without renouncing our values.
It is not a submission to internal politics, but rather a tool to ensure that talent reaches the table where the future of the organization is decided.