Is Talking Politics at the Office Taboo?
Ignoring politics these days, especially in the last heated days of the ‘08 presidential election, is next to impossible. But talking politics at the office can still create tension.
The New York Times published a piece recently quoting commonsense tips from Jamie and Maren Showkeir, workplace experts and authors of the book Authentic Conversations: Moving from Manipulation to Truth and Commitment.
When chatting about politics, the duo advises:
• Don’t assume your co-workers share your political views and opinions.
• Don’t abuse your power or position.
• Avoid making politics personal.
• Discuss rather than debate.
• Try to find common ground.
All this made us wonder …
Is talking politics with clients and co-workers taboo? Or have you been able to find a way to navigate these murky waters? Tell us how.
Answer in the comments below.
Read last week’s question and answers about pro bono.
Our favorite answer:
Posted by “Bee”: “Always having done pro bono work for artists and musicians (I am a copyright and licensing lawyer), I actually believed what the partner at the big law firm in DC told me when they hired me, which was something like: This firm considers pro bono work important, blah, blah, blah… Reality: law firms do not care if you do pro bono work. The choice should be made according to your values—if you want to assist others by using your legal knowledge, you should. But do not hold any expectations that a big law firm will appreciate it ;-)”
