#212 Jennifer Selby Long: Office Politics Without the Backstabbing—Yes, It’s Possible

Jennifer Selby Long has spent three decades coaching tech leaders through the messiest corners of organizational change. In this episode, she tackles everything from leadership blind spots to stakeholder tug-of-wars and shares why handling office politics doesn’t have to feel like an episode of Survivor. Whether you’re managing a team or just trying to stay afloat during corporate upheaval, Jennifer’s strategies will help you keep your cool and make an impact.

Key Highlights of Our Interview:

Aligning Change with Personal Motivations

“People don’t move mountains for stock prices or cost savings. They do it when the change connects to their personal ‘why’—what matters most to them as individuals.”

Recognize the Root of Politics

“Politics can stem from unhealthy leadership, but more often, they arise from competing needs and varied skill levels among stakeholders. Identifying the source is key to navigating them.”

Empathy as a Superpower

“The path through political challenges begins with empathy. Understand the needs of those with power—even if you think they don’t deserve it—and align your strategy with their goals.”

Avoid Playing Psychologist

“Trying to diagnose your boss’s issues only disempowers you. Focus on what you can control instead of guessing why your boss behaves the way they do.”

Assess the Real Problem

“Ask yourself: Is the boss genuinely ineffective, or am I resisting the changes they’re implementing? Recognizing your own resistance can help you approach the situation constructively.”

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Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Jennifer Selby Long

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--**Chief Change Officer**--
Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.

Open a World of Deep Human Intelligence for 
Growth Progressives, Visionary Underdogs,
Transformation Gurus & Bold Hearts.

6 Million+ All-Time Downloads.
Reaching 80+ Countries Daily.
Global Top 3% Podcast.
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>>>100,000+ subscribers are outgrowing. Act Today.<<<

--Chief Change Officer--
Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.

Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligence
for Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,
Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.

EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.
20 Million+ All-Time Downloads.
80+ Countries Reached Daily.
Global Top 1% Podcast.
Top 5 US Business.
Top 1 US Careers.

>>>180,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.<<<