Workplace Game Theory: You've Been in the Game Since Your First Day of Work

Game theory is a game, and even more so, a method of survival.

Walking into the workplace every day means stepping into one game after another:

[Interpersonal Games] [Factional Games] [Salary Games] [Promotion Games]

Are you... ready to take on the challenge?

The business world changes in an instant, and the office is full of intrigue.

On the surface, things look calm, but underneath, currents are surging...

The workplace is cruel, and at times even dark.

To survive and thrive within it, one must deeply interpret its rules of play and learn to face the game.

[Game 1: Fitting In]

➤ Facing untouchable high-level executives and their confidants, self-preservation is the best policy.

➤ Rumors must be carefully verified; ill-intentioned people may use rumors to frame you.

➤ Excessive shyness is easily perceived as being uncooperative; newcomers should maintain a certain level of rapport with every colleague as quickly as possible.

[Game 2: The Promotion Myth]

➤ We joined the company at the same time; he got promoted, but I didn't. Am I being sidelined?

➤ Why doesn't the boss trust me? It might be that you missed these "hidden" opportunities!

[Game 3: Compensation Analysis]

➤ Clearly working hard, but the salary is far from what was expected? Watch out for contract traps!

➤ The Pay Raise Game: When asking the boss for a raise, it's best to propose a figure higher than your target amount?!

➤ Timing is everything when requesting a raise; sometimes, even "resigning" is a method?

[Game 4: Factional Struggles]

➤ Face the facts: In the mire of the workplace, no one can truly act alone.

➤ Observe the atmosphere between superiors daily to avoid being caught off guard when asked to "pick a side."

[Game 5: To Jump Ship or Not]

➤ Three types of people who should not switch jobs:

Those under mountain-high pressure, those in industries with poor outlooks, and those with temporarily no promotion opportunities.

➤ Four things to understand before switching jobs:

Your long-term career promotion prospects at your current company, the company's development direction and outlook, your career development plan, and your market value and expected salary.

➤ Information gathering before switching jobs:

Regularly browse job search websites to understand the job market and conduct research.

Utilize and build your network. Surveys show that 80% of job opportunities come from verbal recommendations.

Through headhunters, as a significant portion of jobs are not advertised. Create a list of potential employers and communicate with them via mail or email.

★ Book Features

This book covers almost all typical workplace examples. It explains profound concepts in simple language with a storytelling style that is interesting and humorous. It allows readers—whether about to enter the workforce or already in it—to finish the book with a smile, gain the essence of workplace game theory, and apply it effectively to their professional lives to help solve workplace dilemmas.