As the Trump administration begins, people in the country and all over the world can’t help but talk about the new president, his views, and what will happen to the U.S. now that a controversial figure is in charge of the highest office in the land. While some workers can barely contain themselves from bringing this discussion into the workplace, some are worried that talking about politics would hurt their careers.
But could you jeopardize your career by talking about politics at work? According to Helen D. Reavis and Deena R. Merlen, partners with the law firm Reavis Parent Lehrer LLP, “it depends” on where you work (via The Muse).
Reavis and Merlen said that if you work in a state where the law protects employees from workplace discrimination based on political affiliation, you’re safe from being fired because of your political views. You’re also safe if the state extends other protections that would protect you from losing your job for talking about politics in the workplace.
However, there’s the matter of talking about politics when you’re supposed to be working. It’s likely that the company you work for will frown upon this practice, as most bosses will prefer that you don’t talk about politics on the company’s dime. If you tend to talk about politics with your co-workers constantly during work hours, then it’s likely that you’ll be hearing about it from your boss.
The same goes for using social media in the office to post your political views. There is a time and place for airing your views on Facebook or Twitter, and the office is not one of those places. Also, try to be on your best behavior online—remember that anyone can see your posts, including your boss.
While talking about politics at work may not affect your career, it could affect your relationship with your co-workers. Remember that politics is very personal, and each person can have different beliefs, with some feeling more strongly about it than others.
To avoid being that person who everyone loves to avoid in the office, don’t think of the political conversation as a way to change your colleague’s mind about his or her beliefs. The objective here is to have a healthy discussion and to gain insight from each other’s views. If you feel the need to be heard, do so, but keep in mind that each person needs to be respected, whatever he or she stands for.
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