Executive placement is tricky business. If you want to be successful, you’ve got to remain above the fray and avoid the messy minefield of office politics. You’ve got to maintain your integrity and be consistent with not only who you are, but the executive you strive to be. Sometimes the drive to succeed can lead to a strong desire to be accepted by your peers at work. You’re not alone, most people want to be liked by their coworkers. But you have to be careful. If you want long-term success in your career, you’ve got to avoid getting caught up in office politics. Here are some tips to help you avoid the drama and keep your career on track.

Office politics not only affect productivity and lower morale, they can be damaging to your career. To protect yourself, you’ve got to avoid getting distracted by the drama. Learning how to navigate around or above the interpersonal office chaos is a smart career move. Avoid office drama. Focus instead on being as productive as you can.

Cliques are not exclusive to school; you can also find them in the workplace. It’s tempting to want to be part of the “in” crowd at work, but these groups and the drama they create can have a negative effect on work culture, productivity, and morale. Try to rise above the desire to be included. Foster relationships with colleagues in different departments who have different duties and experience. These relationships–not the “in” crowd–will be the ones that will help you grow in your position and beyond.

Jealousy and resentment are a common source of office drama. It is very easy to feel jealous when not asked to lunch with management or to be resentful when someone else gets the high-profile project. Competition is human nature, but instead of competing against others, challenge yourself. It takes strength to realize that life (and work) isn’t fair. Developing a thick skin is the best way to handle jealousy. Focus on your work. When you realize that you’re only competing against yourself, you’ll avoid the emotional pitfalls of jealousy and resentment.

Learning to avoid office politics, foster productive relationships, and focus on your own achievements will help you build leadership skills. When you cultivate positive experiences, emotions and relationships, you set a good example for your co-workers. They will see that it is possible to rise above office politics and remain true to yourself. Staying above the fray will lead others to see you as a leader and as positive influence upon the team.