The extent and nature of politics within an organization is a function of the organization's culture. Culture defines the level of politics permitted. For example, when an internal position becomes available it is not unusual in companies for individuals to directly approach senior management and ask to be considered for the role.

Another style of politics is the negative, smear campaign in which individuals create doubt in the minds of senior management about the credentials of other candidates.

Both happen. Whether they are tolerated or not, is a function of organization culture. If you find your organization's political environment very distasteful you may be better off in another company. However, the fact is that you have already received at least one promotion that indicates you are coping with organizational politics.

The essence of politics in companies is "managing management". To do this you need to understand management's objectives and understand the organization's boundaries of acceptable behaviour. And you need to recall that senior managers are more interested in behavioural skills than technical.

Managing management is not somehow devious. It is communicating who you are to management - that you have a sound grasp of the organization's business strategy and you have informed opinion in areas outside of your direct responsibilities. This can range from an assessment of the calibre of fellow employees through to areas of the business that need improvement.

While it is not unreasonable to believe that management information should come through formal channels, the reality of organizations is that senior managers do receive information from many different sources. It is your responsibility to manage management's perception of you.

In your communications with management convey what you want them to learn about you. It is how they see you as a potential leader.

This is an area that many professionals feel uncomfortable with. It amounts to selling yourself. While there is always a fine line between selling and bragging, remember if you do not bother to be your own champion or advocate, who will?