Adrian Furnham is a professor of psychology, academic, author of books, and motivational speaker.
He was educated at the London School of Economics where he obtained a distinction in an MSc Econ., and at Oxford University where he completed a doctorate (D.Phil). He has subsequently earned a D.Sc and D.Litt degree. Previously a lecturer in Psychology at Pembroke College, Oxford, he was Professor of Psychology at University College London from 1992 to 2018.
He has lectured widely abroad and held scholarships and visiting professorships at, amongst others, the University of New South Wales, the University of the West Indies, the University of Hong Kong and the University of KwaZulu-Natal. He has also been a Visiting Professor of Management at Henley Management College.
He is currently Adjunct Professor of Management at the Norwegian School of Management.
Like Noel Coward, he believes that work is more fun than fun itself and considers himself a well-adjusted workaholic. For many years, he has been cycling to work every morning. Adrian enjoys writing popular articles, traveling to exotic countries, advising others on life issues, "debating" at dinner parties, and going to the theater. He has written over 1,300 scientific papers and 95 books.
What you can expect from “Being Savvy At Work: Understanding Office Politics“
First, what is office politics and why does it occur? Why are some organisations more “political” than others? Second, can we reframe “office politics” as “political skills” which are not only useful but necessary to succeed in organisations. It is the ability to effectively understand others at work and to use such knowledge to influence others to act in ways that enhance one’s personal and/or organisational objectives.
Adrian wiil describe in detail the four parts of political skill:
Social Astuteness: This is about being perceptive, insightful, attuned to all the subtleties and nuances of everyday interactions. It is about being psychologically minded. It is about being aware of self and others: how you are “coming across”; what they are really saying. Can you spot liars?
Interpersonal Influence: This is about being persuasive in different contexts. It inevitably means being adaptable and flexible; being a good negotiator and skilful. It is about using the well-known six persuasion techniques.
Networking Ability: This is understanding the usefulness of, and more importantly to be able to establish, a range of alliances, coalitions and friendship networks. This involves the serious skills of deal making, conflict management and negotiation. The size and complexity of your network inside and outside the organization is essential for business success.
Apparent Sincerity: This is about being able to look authentic and genuine on all occasions irrespective of what you really think or feel.
The interactive lecture will be concluded by Adrian with Six Secrets of Politically Savvy People:
- Partner with your boss
- Be a team player
- Understand the power map
- Practice subtle self-promotion
- Connect with powerful people
- Committ to the Business