Political conversations can be contentious in romantic relationships, at the family dinner table, and in the office. Sometimes – perhaps most of the time – it’s best to avoid them altogether.
Maybe, you’re a strong liberal, and you work among a team of conservatives. While healthy dialogue should be possible, nowadays, not many people seem to be able to engage in the nuance of disagreeing respectfully.
You’d hate to ruffle the feathers of a colleague or manager. Even worse, you’d hate to exist in a not so healthy workplace where you are ostracized or your ideas and opinions are unwelcome. With the election quickly approaching, maintaining a peaceful work environment that is psychologically safe is paramount.
Next time that coworker or your manager asks a probing question about your political beliefs, follow these tips to disengage and redirect the conversation.
Learn How to Redirect
The art of redirection is critical in awkward and sometimes contentious conversations, especially regarding politics. If you want to avoid a political conversation at work, steer the dialogue toward something positive or at least more neutral.
Redirect to upcoming holidays or workplace events. You might redirect to a shared interest like a musical artist or a fan-favorite television show. You could ask about a coworker’s recent promotion or a manager’s vacation. Whatever you do, think on positive, lighthearted, and friendly topics.
Maintain a Neutral Stance
If you find yourself in a polarizing political conversation, you don’t have to take a side. Resign to remain neutral and not share your opinions. Kindly bow out of the debate by neither agreeing nor disagreeing. You can say things like, “That is an interesting perspective,” or “I hear what you’re saying.”
Emphasize Shared Goals and Commonalities
Nothing helps a team connect and bond more than having shared goals. When a political debate arises, refocus the conversation to shared priorities and deadlines. If you sense the conversation veering into murky waters, steer it back by wrangling the group to focus on their workplace goals and commonalities.
Ask Questions
Another way to avoid participating in political discussions at work is by asking questions. When people openly share their political perspectives, you might paraphrase their viewpoints. Then, ask how they arrived at this opinion. You can inquire without sharing your own views, but only try this method if you’re okay with hearing more.
Know When to Wave the White Flag
When push comes to shove, you can absolutely exit political conversations in the workplace. You can be completely upfront about not being comfortable discussing politics or you can exit more subtly. You might say you have to exit to grab water or use the restroom.
Whatever you do, know your rights. Some companies even have policies that employees cannot debate politics or religion at work.