We are well into the political season and the rhetoric that surrounds us will be here long after the election. Some people consider politics a sport and think nothing of sharing their opinions about the players, the plays and the ranking of the teams. Discussing politics can be a fun and educational experience and provide an opportunity to enthusiastically debate the issues. All true…but discussing politics at work can create employee relations headaches. 

Politics is one of those subjects that can unintentionally create a hostile work environment and make an employee feel at risk or threatened. There are few subjects that can quickly escalate from a friendly exchange of ideas to trying to convince someone why you believe your candidate of choice is the ONLY option. This is especially true if a manager the one doing the arguing. It may feel like coercion. 

It isn’t necessary to stop talking politics at work but as with everything else that involves a personal opinion, it’s important that everyone is heard. As a manager try to ensure the tenor of the conversations remain respectful and the environment is inclusive and not an atmosphere of we/they.  The diversity of opinions enhance the workforce, however when taken to the extreme, can also splinter it beyond repair. 

What’s your position on this?