Workplace discourse on politics: Approach with appropriate respect

Discussing politics in the workplace: Practice respect and diplomacy

Maybe it's just a difference in how threatening you perceive particular issues to be. Sometimes someone with strong beliefs can be bothered by someone who doesn't consider anything that important, and vice versa.

But the issue is: How can we stop our discussions about these polarizing topics from hindering our ability to work effectively together?

For Employers: Encourage Politeness and Establish Boundaries

In today's society, it seems like the level of civility in the United States has been decreasing. And more and more of these controversial conversations are taking place in the workplace, contrary to what occurred in the past, according to SHRM, the largest human resources membership organization.

In response, SHRM has created a civility index.

A survey of 1,600 workers conducted by the association in March, while not representative of all US employees, found that respondents rated the civility in their workplaces higher than in their daily lives, but they also stated that 39% of the instances of incivility they encountered or experienced took place at work. Incivility includes rude, disrespectful, or insensitive behavior, lack of consideration, not fulfilling promises, or not taking responsibility for one's mistakes.

Two-thirds of respondents agreed or strongly agreed that incivility leads to reduced productivity, and more than half (59%) said that it has a negative impact on morale.

In the light of the divisiveness of this election year, HR professionals urge employers to address the potential for heated exchanges before they occur by outlining expectations regarding acceptable behavior.

"Recognize that tensions exist in the world and that there are strong emotions on both sides of an issue," advised Christy Pruitt-Haynes, Global Head of the Talent and Performance Practice at the NeuroLeadership Institute. "Tell employees, 'We know this is happening and we know you have strong feelings about it.'"

However, it's crucial to set boundaries for discussions. For example, Pruitt-Haynes suggests, "Everyone is entitled to their opinion, but we won't tolerate personal attacks - verbal or physical - or talking down to someone if their opinion is different."

Employers setting these standards should also adhere to them. And ideally, business leaders should avoid giving any indication of their personal views on divisive issues, according to HR consultant Cindy O'Peka, who primarily works with smaller and medium-sized employers. "It could create a divisive atmosphere at work. It's not a conducive environment for team-building."

For Employees: Maintain Your Composure

If you find yourself caught in a conversation with a coworker who expresses political or social views that you outright disagree with, or even find offensive, there are several ways to have a civil exchange or politely disengage.

Take a moment to understand your emotional response: Pay attention to how you're reacting internally to what's being said.

"When we take a moment to recognize what we're actually feeling, we shift our response from the emotional part of our brain to the logical part of our brain," Pruitt-Haynes explained.

Keep things in perspective: Are the other person's views really so important that you're willing to create a negative atmosphere by trying to convince them they're wrong? (It's usually a lost cause, by the way.)

"Don't use it as a moment to argue and convince," Pruitt-Haynes continued. "Recognize that while their opinion may differ from yours, what is the purpose of being at work? Consider the long-term consequences. You work for the same company as they do."

Instead, concentrate on the positive aspects of the person. See them as an expert who offers value to you. "Compartmentalize who they are. He is an expert – that's the part of him you're engaging with," she said. "Shift the conversation back to what your professional relationship is truly about."

Be aware of the influence of social media: If you or your coworker get most of your information on events and issues through social media, your feeds are probably designed to reinforce or shape your beliefs based on your past use.

"People are being fed through their algorithms," said Oliver Brecht, Vice President of Workplace Options Consulting Group. "Our social media feeds are filled with one side of the argument."

During conversations, maintain civility and open-mindedness: You don't have to agree with someone, but you can be genuinely interested in their views. And share how you came to your own beliefs.

"Speak from your own experience," Brecht advised. You can ask related questions about theirs with respect.

And remember, Brecht added, "We might disagree on something, but that doesn't mean we disagree on everything."

Distract and defuse: If someone is passionately discussing an issue and you don't want to engage, simply alter the topic of the conversation. "I'll say, 'How's your new puppy doing?'" suggested O'Peka. "It disarms and redirects them."

When it comes to workplace situations, if someone acts in a threatening or disrespectful manner, it's important to report this to your manager or human resources (HR). However, if a co-worker shares their opinions or shows their support for a candidate through their clothing or workspace, it might not be a violation. This could depend on the rules set by your company in their employee handbook and other guidelines to maintain a positive work environment.