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Three subjects to avoid in the workplace are money, religion and politics.

Politics in particular can be a touchy subject. Especially during "hot topic" times such as the period before elections. What begins as a benign conversation can easily deteriorate into teasing, ridiculing or a heated debate. One can never be sure about the political beliefs of others or how passionate they may be in their views.

Even discussing politics with a coworker who is in agreement with your own views is unwise. The conversation could be overheard, repeated and misconstrued.

Our political views are totally unrelated to our work. They will neither garner us a promotion nor a salary increase. Should the person in authority have opposing views, this could actually work against us. Employers anxious to discourge controversy might actually view participation in political discussions as questionable behavior or a lack of prudence.

When discussions of politics arise the best line of defense is to listen politely and extricate oneself from the conversation as expediently as possible. If we announce we don't share our political opinions, we will be deemed critical and judgmental. If we participate in the sole capacity of a listener, our silence could be interpreted as agreement. Better to be a non participant than to risk being misunderstood.

If one is cornered in a situation where it would be awkward to disengage, then listening is the best method to employ. Most politically fervent individuals who have a need to present their views at every opportunity will welcome a good listener. They are often not as interested in our views as they are determined to share their own. If we are asked outright our affiliation or who we are voting for, a smile and the reply "undecided" will usually suffice.

Unfortunately, it is human nature to take disagreement as disapproval. This is the reason political conversations often end badly. There are always going to be opposing opinions within a group and the more assertive individuals will attempt to sway the less vocal. There is no way to assess the potential damage to egos and emotions when all is said and done.

It is necessary to have reasonably good rapport with coworkers. Efficiency, cooperation and optimum production are dependent on smooth working relationships. Talking politics opens the door to the potential for disagreements, conflict and offended feelings.

If one's views are unorthodox, this could translate into the opinion one does not exercise good judgment. An employer could look askance at an employee who spouts political opinions differing from his own. In order to practice good "office politics" we will want to refrain from any conversation about politics.

In order not to risk jeopardizing our job or our reputation as a competent employee, we will nix all political discussions in the workplace.

Learn more about this author, Carol Gioia.
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