In the News: Talking Politics in the Office

CNN.com did a great piece today on talking politics in the office. They suggest that while talking about politics in the office is sort of inevitable, it's important to tread lightly. They explain that political discussions can lead to offensive conversations regarding hot button issues. But, is it really possible to avoid these talks?

In the report, they chronicle a conservative woman's struggle with a largely liberal office. While she was often the subject of friendly banter, it eventually took its toll. She was luckily offered a job at another firm where its employees were less vocal in their political views. Though she never personally confronted anyone at her former job about making her uncomfortable, she admits, at times it could be tough. So what do we do with controversial people within the office?

With the country's primaries coming to a close and the official race beginning, the election is likely to be on the tips of your co-workers' tongues. You may be tempted to discuss important issues your favorite candidate is addressing; however, The Plain Dealer suggests you consider the feelings of others. Bringing up issues that are near and dear to your heart could easily offend someone else. If you must discuss these issues at work, be sure to stick to the facts.

Because dealing with politics is such a sticky situation and can really affect the dynamic of the work place, The Association of Information Technology Professionals (AITP) offers the dos and don'ts of discussing such issues at work.

Don't put people on the spot - never ask co-workers who they plan to vote for.

Do remove yourself from a heated discussion - you should never feel like you have to stick a conversation out. Politely tell those participating in the discussion that you're staying out of it.

Don't let it get in the way of productivity - the worst thing you can do is show your employer that you're spending too much time talking politics and not enough time working.

Be respectful - if you find your opinions differ from that of your co-workers, try to remain unemotional and impersonal.

While remaining respectful of others and avoiding emotionally charged conversations is great advice, it's not something you can force others to abide by. So, if you're not the controversial one in your office, how do you deal with others who are? AllBusiness.com believes that conflict resolution is your best bet.

Assess your situation - thoroughly examine the behavior that has offended you. Is it unprofessional? Can you deal with it or does this issue need to be addressed? Think long and hard about what it is that is actually bothering you.

Take action - if you've decided that it is an issue that needs to be addressed, speak with your co-worker yourself. Pull them aside and let them know that you are uncomfortable with their political conversations.

Take it higher - if the problem still persists or if you don't feel comfortable speaking to your co-worker about the issue, take it to your boss.

While discussing hot button issues with your colleagues may be inevitable, it really boils down to common courtesy. Business Week claims that rather than trying to stifle controversial conversations within the office, we should all consider how our actions may affect others. Because we can't guarantee that our actions won't offend and we can't expect our views to be tolerated, they are better discussed off the clock.

Do you deal with controversial people at work? How do you deal with these people? Do political discussions in the office offend you?