There will always be those who would say that it’s 2019 and it should be okay to discuss politics at work. In fact, they would even go ahead and say it is important that we do that! But no, do not listen to them. Discussion of politics is extremely important and I have always reiterated how irresponsible it is to be *apolitical*. But, there is a right time and place for everything. Your workspace and your working hours are not the right time and place for you to give a speech in favour of your favourite candidate. No political topic can ever be discussed safely in a given workspace. Elections or not, just keep your work away from your political views and opinions. Here’s why-
The Possible Cost Of Political Discussion
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We all know how intolerant and sentimental people can be in political deliberations. If your political opinion doesn’t align with a co-worker of yours, it is possible that your work relationship gets in jeopardy. Now, think about it. Is it worth the cost? A meaningless temptation to talk politics at work has not put you in loggerheads with one of your co-workers. You never know how bad this could be for you. Maybe this co-worker becomes instrumental in getting you a promotion tomorrow but you cannot ask them for any favour because you two do not even see eye to eye now. So, the cost of your political discussion can be a lost promotion opportunity. And it can only get worse from here! Imagine what happens when you get into a political debate with your boss?
It Can Be Very Distractive
Political debates and discussion are super interesting, even if you aren’t a part of it. You could be just sitting comfortably on your chair and listening two random political *pundits* voice their opinions with an extraordinary conviction. Ah! Nobody misses the sight of that ugly spat over political views! But you know what they do miss? DEADLINES! Political discussion can be a huge distraction and it can take A LOT of your time without you even realising it. So, if you want to productive, better keep it out of your office space.
It Could Divide The Office
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Almost everyone in the office has their own political choices and allegiances. Active discussion on politics will reveal everybody’s to everyone. This is NOT good at all! The office will immediately get divided into leftist and rightists, communists and liberals and WHAT NOT! People might even resort to name calling. You never know how low politics can make one stoop. It is always better to take precautionary steps and make sure that politics stays out of your office.
There are lots of other things to talk about at work. It could be the movies, the books, the vacation plans etc. And of course you could also talk about *work* once in a while, yeah? 😛
