Political Discussions at Work: A Double-Edged Sword

As the presidential race and key ballot issues heat up this fall, political conversations are becoming increasingly difficult to avoid. A recent Gallup survey reveals that nearly half of US workers have discussed political issues with a coworker in the past month, and 38% have overheard such conversations. However, not everyone feels comfortable engaging in these discussions. While some report feeling included and even closer to their coworkers, others feel uncomfortable or treated unfairly for their views.The survey also found that engaged workers are less likely to feel uncomfortable during political discussions, suggesting that employee engagement may have a buffering effect on these exchanges. Workplace experts advise leaders and employees to tread cautiously when discussing contentious issues to avoid derailing the ability to work well together. Leaders should set clear boundaries for exchanges and abide by them, avoiding giving any hint of their views on contentious issues to prevent creating an 'us/ 'us/them'