Talking Politics in the Workplace -- or Not

Office Politics: Engaging Without Enraging

by Dave Willmer, executive director of Office Team

Talking politics on the job used to be considered inappropriate or even taboo. But employees today are more apt to chat about this once off-limits topic. In a survey of office workers by OfficeTeam, 67 percent of respondents said discussing political campaigns and candidates is acceptable as long as the debate isn’t too heated. Fourteen percent actually consider it useful to talk about political issues, and they welcome these conversations. Only 18 percent said political banter is inappropriate.

Given this change in attitude and the intense interest surrounding the presidential election, it’s important to know how to tactfully handle potentially divisive political discourse at work. Here are some strategies to consider:

Be judicious with how you discuss. Wade — don’t jump — into political conversations. Knowing your audience and sharing your thoughts in a low-key, non-confrontational manner is one thing; imposing your political views on everyone who walks by your cubicle is another. Keep in mind that you’re more likely to offend colleagues than you are to change their minds.
Steer clear of interrogating others. While you may be comfortable divulging your political leanings, some of your colleagues will not be. Respect their privacy by not putting them on the spot with pointed questions. Badgering coworkers about whom they support or how they feel about hot-button political issues is a sure-fire way to damage relationships.
Know the company rules. According to a survey by the American Management Association, 39 percent of executives, managers and employees said their company has a written policy prohibiting the distribution or posting of material that endorses a political party or candidate. Before forwarding a political e-mail or displaying a poster or bumper sticker on your office wall, make sure you understand your company’s rules regarding the public support of political causes. Get a sense of your firm’s unwritten rules, as well. If others don’t display their political leanings, it may be unofficially frowned upon.
Diplomatically disengage. Don’t allow yourself to be pressured into opening up about your views. If friendly water-cooler chitchat is turning into an emotionally charged interrogation, bow out of the conversation gracefully. “Sorry, I’m going to steer clear of that question” or “I better get back to work” are helpful phrases to remember.

Taking part in civilized political discussions in the workplace can broaden your perspective, help you to better understand what matters to your coworkers, or simply make your lunch hour more interesting. Just remember to remain respectful of all viewpoints when playing political pundit at work.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Dave Willmer is executive director of OfficeTeam, the nation’s leading staffing service specializing in the temporary placement of highly skilled administrative and office support professionals. OfficeTeam has more than 300 locations worldwide and offers online job search services at www.officeteam.com.