Most are
familiar with the old adage cautioning against discussing religion or politics
in polite company, but a recent survey indicates that many are not heeding this
advice when it comes to talking politics at the office.
According to
a 2007 survey by Vault, 66% of respondents say that their co-workers discuss
politics at work, while 46% have witnessed a political argument at the office.
With
election season in full swing, impassioned political debate has the potential
to escalate into conflict of a deeply personal nature, some of which may create
bad will among co-workers that can far outlast the current issues of the day.
While a
certain amount of political discussion at work is unavoidable, it's not surprising
that such talk often leads to heated and emotional argument. Political
viewpoints often serve as umbrellas that cover a spectrum of deeply held
personal beliefs that are informed by an individual's religion, culture,
upbringing, economic class and other influences.
Appropriateness: When and how much?
Best
practice dictates that employees avoid political discussion of any form during
the regular conduct of business. Interjecting political commentary into
meetings, work-related email and/or other official communication is highly
unprofessional and grossly inappropriate. Doing so drags down productivity,
creates unnecessary distraction, and can potentially alienate fellow employees
and/or clients.
While the
line is clear in the conduct of official business, it's not as clear when
socializing with co-workers while on the job. The following are a few
guidelines to help you steer clear of any unintended harmful side-effects that
may come about when expressing your political views.
Be mindful of those around you:
While a
boisterous political discussion may seem to you to be the perfect way to spend
your lunch break, others may not share your enthusiasm for politics. Never take
an individual's silence as agreement. It is equally likely to signal discomfort.
Before
launching into a political discussion, ask all within earshot two questions:
1. Are you comfortable having a political
discussion with me?
2. Do you mind overhearing me talk about
politics?
If the
answer to either of these questions is no, then it is not appropriate to
continue.
Remember that others may feel as strongly
as you:
While it can
be frustrating when someone refuses to be swayed by your
seemingly
reasonable arguments, it's important to remember that others have deeply and
honestly held convictions as well. Bullying and/or pestering others until they
come around to your viewpoint is inappropriate behavior and will likely create
conflict, workplace disruption, and hard feelings.
Avoiding
escalation always begins with the respecting the rights of others to believe
differently than you. When in doubt, it's best to "agree to disagree"
and drop the issue.
Never make it personal:
People of
good faith can disagree on all manner of things. A particular political
viewpoint is nothing more than a set of ideas and has no bearing on an
individual's integrity or intelligence.
Never allow
political disagreement to become personal. Always take care to avoid
inflammatory language, personal insults, and sweeping generalizations.
Allow your
sensibilities to be guided by basic courtesy. A good rule of thumb is to follow
the same conversational etiquette that you would follow if you were a dinner
guest in your co-worker's home.
Handling Harassment
No employee
should feel compelled to agree with or remain silent in the face of aggressive
political advocacy. Attempts to embarrass, ostracize, harass or punish
employees for their political ideologies can create a hostile work environment.
If you are
uncomfortable with the discussion of politics at your workplace, it's
recommended that you make your feelings known and politely assert your wish to
avoid political discussion at the office. If met with resistance or
retaliation, report your discomfort to a supervisor or a Human Resource
representative.
Comments
Post a Comment