In both social settings and during initial romantic encounters, it’s been commonly suggested that topics like politics, religion, finances, or your previous relationships can lead to awkwardness or even ruin future interactions. One might assume the same rule applies in professional environments. However, since we rely on communication to build connections, you may find yourself eager to discuss current events with a colleague who supposedly shares your views.
Here are some useful guidelines on how to navigate these sensitive conversations (or when to steer clear of them) while establishing overall limits in a workplace environment.
Begin by establishing the boundary
The American Psychological Association describes a boundary as “a psychological line that safeguards the integrity of an individual or group and helps them set realistic limits on involvement in a relationship or activity.” The specific form of that boundary is ultimately up to each person and may evolve throughout their career.
Todd Brazda, a risk management executive working in Chicago at an investment firm, shares that he is generally quite transparent about his personal life with coworkers, though the arrival of his son Oliver has made him reconsider that openness.
“Now I guard certain aspects of my personal life more closely,” says Brazda. “The pandemic experience also led me to be more protective of my family and personal matters, as that period was largely a time of heightened caution for many of us.”
For some, maintaining personal privacy may mean refusing to accept friend requests from coworkers on social media. Others might not mind being Facebook friends but prefer to avoid after-work socializing or only include family and close friends in party invitations.
Assess what’s suitable
Boundaries also relate to the topics of conversation. While you may feel comfortable sharing your thoughts on various subjects, determining what’s suitable to discuss is crucial, according to Jesica Speed Wiley, a senior associate at Vocable Communications.
“[Assessing appropriateness] relies on several factors: the type of politics, the dynamic of the relationship, and the context of the news,” she states. “Current events and political issues affect individuals in varying ways, and especially for those with significant privilege, it’s wise to listen first, share ‘value-driven’ insights in certain situations, and ask questions that show appreciation for learning about others’ experiences, without expecting those affected by a certain policy to educate them about its repercussions.”
Liane Davey, co-founder and principal of 3COze Inc. and author of You First: Inspire Your Team to Grow Up, Get Along, and Get Stuff Done, advised the Harvard Business Review that you should “think about… social cues before initiating or joining discussions about political matters.”
“Usually, you can pick up on people’s perspectives,” she observes. “Diving into a highly contentious issue can jeopardize a relationship.” Nonetheless, if you find yourself in a small group or feel strongly about a particular topic, it might compel you to voice your opinion.
“It’s ultimately a decision you make,” explains Davey. “Our society would be a less progressive environment if brave individuals didn’t advocate for these important matters.”
Brazda admits he is quite straightforward in expressing his views on controversial subjects.
“Even in the workplace, I don’t hesitate to share my opinions,” he remarks. “That being said, I don’t push colleagues to engage in these discussions unless they show interest. I welcome spirited debates occasionally, but generally, our office tends to avoid heavy political discussions.”
Should you choose to remain entirely quiet?
Considering the risks of alienation or division, you might believe that withholding your opinions is the safest route. Yet, according to Speed Wiley, that’s not necessarily the case.
“It’s vital to recognize that politics ‘out there’ significantly affect many personal and professional aspects of our lives,” she emphasizes. “For instance, women and transgender employees work at organizations situated in states that have enacted laws restricting and banning healthcare access. Such political decisions directly affect their well-being and healthcare access in ways that do not apply to men and cisgender employees.”
When companies fail to acknowledge these inequalities, Speed notes that silence can be interpreted as complicity. “More often than not, it’s wise to recognize how current events and politics may influence us—it’s an acknowledgment of the people we work alongside and the unique ways broader political issues impact all of us.”
Aim for a balanced perspective
“Communication experts often describe communication as the ‘lifeblood’ of organizations, indicating that it’s essential for organizational existence,” says Speed Wiley.
So assess the atmosphere, define your own limits and comfort level regarding sharing, and then communicate your thoughts if you choose to do so—but do so thoughtfully.
“Bringing up topics like the indictment and arrest of the former U.S. president at work might not foster enhanced relationships,” warns Speed Wiley, “but continuous reflection and interaction with the political dimensions of professional communication can ultimately contribute to broadening our organizations toward greater inclusion.”
