When You're Not in the Inner Circle
- Priya Venkatesan
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
I'm not good at politics.
I hear this often from senior leaders. Usually when they've been passed over or blindsided by a decision they didn't see coming.
But when we explore deeper through the coaching process, it's rarely about politics.
It's about the inner circle. And they're not in it.
What is this inner circle?
It's a informal circle of peers/co-workers formed around key decision makers who can influence career outcomes for the you, the leader.
This is the group that meets before the meeting and after the meeting.
They are having conversation that happens without you.
You see the shadow of the circle in decisions already made before you walk in.
The context others have that you don't.
You're informed, not consulted.
You are included, but not current.
These inner circles could be built on loyalty, history, similarity or for protection.
They could also be cartels and cults.
Some of the default methods that I see leaders using to handle the inner circles
Try and get into them somehow.
Walk away saying these grapes are sour.
Blame themselves for lack of visibility and try all logical methods of reaching there.
However. a little reflection taken before any of the above steps will be more sustainable based on whether you consider joining the circle worthy and the openness of the circle.
Not every inner circle is worth joining. Not every one is open.
The leaders who navigate this well aren't better at politics. They're clearer about what they're dealing with.
Some circles you work your way into. Some you build around. Some you walk away from.
The skill is knowing which is which.
Reflections
What circle are you trying to get into, and why?
Are you outside because of them, or because of you?
What are you trading to belong?
When is it better to walk away?
