Election Politics and the Workplace
It’s common courtesy to avoid political discussions at work. Still, they do happen.
If resistance is futile, these tips can help prevent a fracas:
- Learn to self-intervene. When tension builds, move the discussion along to more work-related matters.
- Check your visceral reaction. Politics prompts a "flight or fight" response. Don’t give in to it. This dynamic is reinforced by the culture, but succumbing to it can make it seem okay to get personal.
- Avoid demonization or moral indictment of a coworker.
- Do a "reboot." End political discussions with a verbal affirmation that despite differences, you really do value your workplace relationships.
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Keith Stein | 11/5/2020
