Politics In The Workplace

(Thursday, July 01, 2004) - Mother always told you never to discuss politics, sex or religion in the office or with people you just met, but that might be impossible this fall, as the presidential election starts to heat up - both at the polls and in the workplace, where water cooler discussions of political happenings and the job market are commonplace. Political experts are predicting a tight race in the presidential campaign - and recent films such as "Fahrenheit 9/11" are adding to the workplace chatter. "So many seemingly neutral workplace discussions -- such as a film you saw over the weekend -- could and likely will lead to larger debates about politics and the 2004 elections," says Peter Handal. "You try to observe those boundaries and respect the fact that your co-worker might have differing political views from your own, but it's the proverbial elephant in the room."

Managers need to be especially wary during the time before and after an election. Many workers will cast their ballots before they arrive for work, or during their lunch hour, and return to the office in a "political" frame of mind, eager to discuss their choices with their co-workers. "Differences in the workplace are always good," says Handal, "but political views always remain sensitive. As a manager or executive, you have to set the bar on what is and isn't appropriate to say about your personal politics, the candidates you plan to vote for, and the legislation and bills you will support. As a leader, you never want to be perceived as not having an opinion. However, as a leader you must also define and respect issues that dramatically affect opinion in the workplace."

Approaches Recommended by Peter Handal:

Lead by Example:
Remember, everyone is voting based on their own personal experience, so reminding your employees that you notice how respectful they are of one another will motivate them to be cautious when discussing sensitive issues.

Respond to Political Questions Tactfully:
It is your opportunity, and duty as a manager, to create a sound environment for politics to be discussed when asked questions regarding your own personal politics. Relay your thoughts, always citing both sides of a situation, so your views are clear but it is also apparent that you are aware of other perspectives. Your team will understand that you have your opinions, but respect others' as well, which will encourage them to do the same.

Make Sure Your Team Knows You Respect their Opinions:
In any opinion-based conversation, especially concerning the controversies of the 2004 presidential election, it is important to avoid telling someone that you think they're "wrong." Invalidating someone's beliefs this way will set the tone for more argumentative discussions, since people will automatically speak from a defensive standpoint.

Regulate if Necessary:
It is best to avoid interfering in your employees debates, however, if you see an argument escalating it may be necessary for you to interject. Keep your response in a friendly tone, but suggest that such discussions are not appropriate for the workplace.

View all Dale Carnegie Training Press Releases

This article has been read 158 times.

Printer Friendly