Navigating Political Conversations in the Workplace: Respectful Engagement

Chances are, you might find yourself working with colleagues who have contrasting views on sensitive topics like the US presidential election, Donald Trump's legal troubles, Gaza, reproductive rights, and climate change.

You might also find that you and your colleagues disagree on the severity of these issues. It's common for someone with strong opinions to feel uneasy around someone who doesn't see things as a big deal, and vice versa.

How can we prevent our discussions on controversial topics from affecting our teamwork? Employers can promote civility and establish boundaries.

It appears that US culture has become less civil over time, regardless of any one hot-button issue. According to SHRM, the leading human resources membership association, many polarizing conversations are happening at work in ways they weren’t years ago.

In response to this trend, SHRM recently developed a civility index.

Its pulse survey of 1,600 employees in March revealed that while workplaces were generally seen as more civil than everyday life, 39% of the incivility experienced or witnessed by respondents occurred at work. Incivility includes rude behavior, lack of manners, not keeping promises, or failing to take accountability for mistakes.

Hundreds of Pro-Palestinian protesters are gathered near the Ferry Building and marched on Market Street to protest Israeli attacks on Gaza and Rafah, in San Francisco, California, United States on March 24, 2024.

Hundreds of protesters supporting Palestine gathered near the Ferry Building in San Francisco, California. They marched down Market Street to protest against the Israeli attacks on Gaza and Rafah on March 24, 2024.

Tayfun Coskun/Anadolu/Getty Images

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Experts in human resources suggest that it is important for employers to address any potential conflicts that may arise during this election year. It is recommended to establish clear guidelines and expectations regarding acceptable behavior to prevent any negative impact on productivity and employee morale.

Christy Pruitt-Haynes, who is the global head of the talent and performance practice at the NeuroLeadership Institute, recognizes that there are tensions in the world and strong emotions surrounding various issues. She acknowledges that employees may have strong feelings about these matters.

It is important to establish boundaries for discussions within the workplace. Pruitt-Haynes suggests stating, "Everyone is entitled to their opinion, but we do not condone personal attacks, whether verbal or physical, or speaking condescendingly to others simply because their opinion differs from yours."

Leaders should remind employees of the ways to report inappropriate behavior if it happens, according to Oliver Brecht, vice president of Workplace Options Consulting Group.

Executives who establish guidelines should also follow them. HR consultant Cindy O’Peka, who specializes in working with small and mid-size employers, suggests that private-sector leaders avoid expressing their opinions on controversial issues. This can help prevent creating a divide among employees and maintain a positive team-building atmosphere.

For employees: Tips on handling sensitive conversations

If you ever come across a colleague expressing political or social opinions that you strongly disagree with, there are several ways to handle the situation without getting into a heated argument.

Pause for a moment and take a deep breath: Notice how you are feeling inside in response to what is being said.

According to Pruitt-Haynes, when we take the time to identify and label our emotions, we shift our reaction from the emotional part of our brain to the logical part.

Consider the importance of your colleague's opinions. Is it worth causing tension by trying to prove them wrong? Remember, it's often not worth the effort.

According to Pruitt-Haynes, instead of getting into a debate, focus on the bigger picture. Remember that you both work for the same employer.

Focus on the value he brings to the table. Think of it as expertise. "Think of him as an expert - that's the side you're interacting with," she explained. "Steer the conversation back to the true nature of your relationship - a professional one."

Understand the impact of social media on perspectives: If you and your colleague rely on social media for news and updates, your feeds are curated by an algorithm that shows content aligning with or shaping your beliefs from past interactions.

"People are being influenced by algorithms. We have only been exposed to one perspective," Brecht mentioned. This can make us less understanding and open to where others are coming from.

During discussions, it’s important to stay respectful and informative. You don’t have to agree with others, but you can show interest in their opinions. You can also explain how you formed your own views.

Brecht advised to share your own experiences when communicating. It's also okay to inquire about the experiences of others, as long as it's done respectfully. He also mentioned that disagreement on one thing doesn't equate to disagreement on everything.

To deflect and de-escalate a situation, O’Peka suggests changing the focus when someone is ranting about an issue. For example, asking about their puppy can disarm and redirect them.

If someone at work says or does anything threatening or disrespectful, it's important to report it to your manager or HR. However, if a colleague simply expresses a different view or shows support for a candidate in their attire or workspace, it may not be a problem. O’Peka noted that it depends on your employer’s policies in the handbook, such as dress code and guidelines for maintaining a friendly workplace.

Editor's P/S:

The article highlights the increasing prevalence of incivility in workplaces, particularly regarding sensitive topics. It emphasizes the need for employers to establish clear guidelines and boundaries to prevent conflicts and maintain productivity. By promoting civility and discouraging personal attacks, organizations can foster a positive and inclusive work environment where differing opinions can be respected without compromising teamwork.

Furthermore, the article provides practical tips for employees on how to navigate sensitive conversations. It encourages individuals to pause and reflect on their emotions, consider the importance of their colleague's opinions, and focus on the professional nature of their relationship. By understanding the impact of social media on perspectives and staying respectful and informative, employees can effectively engage in discussions while maintaining a positive and collaborative work environment.