When we think of startup culture, we often picture open office layouts, team happy hours, and a “no politics, just progress” mantra. Startups pride themselves on being the antithesis of traditional corporate environments with lat hierarchies, fast-moving decision-making, and transparent leadership.
But beneath the surface of ping-pong tables and Slack emojis lies a truth that many early-stage professionals learn too late: politics exist everywhere—including startups.
Startups are not immune to human behavior. In fact, the speed, stakes, and shifting priorities can amplify the dynamics that large companies spend decades managing. When resources are scarce, visibility is high, and roles are fluid; influence, perception, and internal alliances become even more important.
If you want to succeed, and not just survive, at a startup, you must learn to navigate the politics of a rapidly changing organization.
Why Politics Matter in a Startup
In early-stage companies, decisions are often made quickly and informally. Titles may not reflect actual power. A product manager might hold more sway than the COO when it comes to roadmap priorities. A long-time engineer might override a new CTO’s ideas because they’ve “been there since the beginning.” Relationships matter, perceptions matter, and knowing how to work the system, without losing your integrity, is key to long-term success.
Additionally, the lack of structure means that ambiguity rules the day. In this chaos, influence often outweighs logic. Those who are politically savvy are able to shape narratives, get buy-in, and adapt quickly as priorities shift. Those who aren’t are left wondering why their great ideas never gain traction or why they keep getting passed over for new opportunities.
Top Tips for Startup Political Success
- Learn the Real Power Map
Forget the org chart, start by observing who has influence over decisions. Is it the head of product, the founder’s former roommate, the most vocal engineer? Map the informal networks and understand who people listen to and why. In my book Secrets of the Career Game, we call this “creating your influencer list,” and we go beyond the title or the seniority to determine who actually makes the rules. - Build Trust, Not Just Visibility
In a small team, everyone sees your output, but that’s not enough. Build credibility by consistently delivering, yes, but also by being a reliable teammate. People back those they trust when it’s time to choose who leads the next big project. This requires investing in relationships that go deeper than the “oh yeah I’m super busy too” small talk at the start of project meetings. - Stay Curious, Not Defensive
Startups shift often. One day you’re building a feature, the next you’re sunsetting it. Instead of resisting change, show flexibility. Ask questions, show curiosity, and adapt quickly – and don’t be married to your suggestions. Creating emotional distance from the adoption of your ideas will give you the space to see things more objectively and not get sucked into the weeks. This agility earns you respect. - Be a Bridge, not a Barrier
Cross-functional collaboration is vital. Sales needs Product. Marketing needs Engineering. Be the person who communicates well across functions, translates needs, and reduces friction. You’ll become indispensable. - Protect Your Reputation Like Equity
In small teams, word travels fast. One passive-aggressive comment, one missed deadline, one poorly handled conflict and, I promise you, people remember. Every interaction shapes how others perceive your leadership potential, your reliability, and your value. Create Proactive Mitigation Responses to your triggers and be proactive in how you handle communication – not reactive. - Play the Long Game
Startups move fast, but your career doesn’t have to. Not every battle is worth fighting. Choose when to push, when to pause, and when to pivot. Your ability to stay strategic in a sea of urgency will set you apart. Again this comes back to avoiding reactivity – think with the long term in mind. - Stay Close to the Founders—But Not Too Close
If you have access to leadership, use it wisely. Founders often make snap decisions based on who’s in the room. Being visible can help, but avoid becoming a sycophant or over-relying on proximity to power. Earn your spot at the table with results and insight.
Final Thoughts
The startup world may sell itself as an escape from corporate bureaucracy, but in reality, the game still exists—it just looks different. The rules may be unspoken, but they’re real. If you want to rise within a startup, you need more than hustle and hard skills. You need situational awareness, emotional intelligence, and a strategic mind.
Play the game with integrity. Learn how influence works. And most importantly, use your voice in a way that advances both the mission of the company and your own growth. That’s the real secret of the startup game.
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