No matter how much or how little you like politics, you just can’t avoid the topic these days, and in the workplace it can create uncomfortable situations at best and minefields at worst.
According to a recent survey from global staffing firm Robert Half, 66% of professionals said talking politics at work is more common now than it was five years ago, but just 22% feel these conversations are appropriate, The Chicago Tribune reports. Almost half of the respondents (49%) said they’re interested in discussing the topic, 27% reported feeling uncomfortable or indifferent about it, and 19% actually get irritated when politics comes up.
These discussions also can wreak havoc on relationships that are important to a well-functioning team.
If you find yourself distracted by political banter, “there are ways to stay out of office chitchat if you have deadlines to meet,” says Chris Brinkman, with Robert Half. Here’s his best tips:
- When you are chatting with co-workers, if the topic comes to politics, take it as your cue to get back to work.
- Politely let co-workers know you have a deadline to meet so they don’t expect you to engage in office banter.
- Bow out gracefully if you are unexpectedly drawn into a heated political debate. Politely let the other person know that you are uncomfortable with the conversation and walk away if you need to.
- Managers should lead by example—set the tone from the top that it’s OK to have differing views and learn to respect others’ opinions.
Lastly, don’t make assumptions about what people think and tread carefully. Read the full story.
