by Kat Apf

Created on: July 11, 2009   Last Updated: December 11, 2009

Casual conversation with co-workers should be kept to safe topics for a variety of reasons. The main one being, if a topic is brought up which is controversial and co-workers disagree, they still have to work with each other the next day. It's wise to keep conversations light at work and avoid certain subjects.

Religion-

Most people have religious beliefs and most people are firm in them. Talking about it at work is a bad idea. Most people get emotional over religious conversations. The facts are, you aren't going to change anyone's mind in this department. No one way is right and turning into a zealot at work is not going to be good for your career. Drop any talk of religion at work.

Politics-

Just as most people have firm religious beliefs, most also have firm political beliefs. And political talk can get heated. Again, no one way is right and nothing is going to change by having discussions at work about politics. The only thing that will most likely happen is a bad vibe in the air. Don't talk politics at work.

Sex-

There is nothing more unprofessional than talking about your sex life with your co-workers. No one cares. No one wants to know. If you are actually friends with a few of your co-workers and you must discuss sex with them, make sure it's outside of the office. Otherwise, don't even go there.

Each Other-

Do not gossip about the other workers. This is unprofessional and it will always bounce back and smack you in the head. If someone is driving you crazy at work, talk about it with someone outside of work. You'll regret choosing a co-worker who goes right back and tells the person exactly how you feel.

What Can You Safely Talk About-

While there are a lot of don'ts there are also many subjects that can be approached. Music, books and movies are good casual conversation makers. The television shows you watched last night, as long as it wasn't news related, can make good casual conversation.

Childhood memories that an entire generation shares are also good safe topics. Everyone from a certain generation will remember games, toys and music from that era. Those are usually safe bets.You can talk about hobbies you enjoy or sports you engage in, too.

As trite as it sounds, the weather is a good safe topic. You can talk about a heatwave, a snow storm or a crazy thunderstorm without upsetting anyone.

A Good Thing to Remember-

Most of your co-workers will probably not want to upset or bait anyone into an argument but every workplace has at least one person who gets upset about anything and everything other folks say. Or there's someone who goes out of his or her way to tick off everyone they encounter. Your best bet with these guys is to only talk work with them. Don't even touch on anything personal.

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