Most people think corporate america is about merit, hard work and delivering results. There’s a million images and sayings highlighting exactly that. But is it true?

The reality is it’s a complex game of power, perception, and politics. The uncomfortable truths you need to accept are this:

• your manager has already decided if you’re “high potential” not based on your work  but on
  • how you carry yourself
  • who you know
  • what others say about you

This decision happens in your first 90 days.

Second truth:

• there’s a shadow org chart. it’s more powerful than the real one.• who has the real influence
  • who controls resources
  • who others trust
  • who gets things done

Master this map or stay stuck.

The most dangerous corporate myth: “my work speaks for itself”

Reality: that’s the minimum

if the right people don’t see it,
if the right people don’t talk about it,
if the right people don’t champion it,
it might as well not exist.

The game is played in meeting rooms you’re not in. Decisions are made in conversations you don’t hear. Careers are made (and ended) when you’re not around. This is why “heads down” workers stay stuck while “politicians” get promoted.

The real success formula: 40% relationship building 30% controlling narratives 20% actual work quality 10% timing/luck

Ignore any piece and watch others pass you by.