People to know and people to hide from

Within every organisation there are people that can make your life easy or extremely painful. It is a good idea to identify these people early and make an effort to be known or make sure to never incur their wrath. This doesn't usually require much more than a simple hello or kind word in the right place but to be on the safe side follow these simple rules:

1. Everything is better with a smile.
2. Load balance - don't harass a single member if there are other options.
3. Every favour owes a favour.
4. Non work related visits strengthen a relationship. A visit that lasts too long can break it.

Key people in your organisation may include:

• Security guards - Greet the security guards when entering or exiting the building. If your workplace uses swipe card access you may find yourself needing their assistance if you have lost your access card or have a visitor
• Asset Management - The people who manage the computer fleet are great assets to have on your side.
• IT Security - Those pesky forms
• Personal Assistants - It's a little known fact that PAs rule the world. It is more than likely that anything that requires a manager's signature will be assessed or at very least passed by their PA. Know who these people are. There may be times when running something past them first will save embarrassment or will provide you with that key missing intel for tomorrow's business meeting.
• Office equipment co-ordinator - Never know when you will need a new pen or stapler
• The office Godfather / Mum - There is always a member of the office that is loved or feared by all. The last thing you want is a kiss of death from the social chair or office mother figure.

People to add to this list will become apparent. There are human resources that are invaluable in every workplace that may not have fancy job titles. Having solid professional relationships can give benefit for years to come and can often pay off when you least expect it. Imagine walking into an interview room and seeing two former collegues on the interview panel. How would you want to be remembered?

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A final thought to take away - Pyramid Schemes work when no-one has to pay for the product. Sell yourself to the right people, make it easy and they will on sell without asking for payment.