In a brief phone conversation with a Californian colleague, I found myself practically defending my life when I simply played devil’s advocate while discussing the recent primaries. Without revealing my particular slant, I had offered the pros and the cons on a few particular candidates – through my lens. She was appalled to hear my thoughts. She was so passionate about her opinion that even questioning her thought process through her into a tail spin.
The workplace is traditionally thought of as a “no religion” and “no politics” zone. But how can we help but instigate a little water cooler talk during a political season that has triggered a firestorm of surprises at every turn? Seems there’s a little more debate during the typical office break, according to one study by OfficeTeam in Menlo, Ca.
About 67% of people surveyed by the administrative staffing agency in its recent phone poll favored sharing political views at work in small doses – as long as the conversation didn’t get too heated. But I would think twice about with whom you share your views, and whether your public opinion contradicts that of your bosses.
A survey by Adecco, a New York recruiting firm, suggests that if your boss swings staunchly toward one political camp it can impact the workplace culture. Adecco’s poll found that 39% of participants said they were effected by which political candidate their boss supported.
It’s really a question of human nature. We naturally want to get our two cents in – and we don’t like to be challenged about our beliefs. And we’re questioning the values of our boss, we might land in hot water. Healthy debate is one side of the coin, but the flip side can be division. If your boss is put into a defensive mode, the workplace climate can take on a “walking on eggshells” feel.
If employees fear allowing their authentic voice to be heard, it can clog up the creative process. Transcending the bias of others without harshly reacting takes a new level of awareness. It’s a fine line between speaking your truth and not offending others. So consider the following:
- Be conscious about the way you express your views. Sharing is one thing, proselytizing is another.
- There is no right and wrong candidate or opinion. You might be a die hard supporter of one camp, but it doesn’t mean your political prowess trumps the likes of your colleagues.
- Mutual respect. Discussing politics might be taboo for certain colleagues and juicy lunchtime conversation for others. If someone prefers not to comment – leave them alone.
- If you and your boss don’t see eye to eye. Heck – leave that conversation for another time – or ditch it all together.
- Remember that the workplace is for work, not for campaigning. You might feel passionate about a topic or candidate, but know when enough is enough.
