| Talking politics has long been considered taboo at the office, but a new survey shows most workers aren’t afraid to play pundit at work: 67 percent of respondents said engaging in political debate is acceptable, within reason; another 14 percent actually invite these conversations. Nearly four in 10 workers polled said discussing political campaigns and candidates is common practice.
The survey was conducted by an independent research firm and is based on telephone interviews with 522 workers 18 years of age or older and employed in an office environment.
Employees were asked: “Which statement best describes your views about professionals discussing political campaigns or candidates at work?” Their responses:
- It’s useful to talk about political issues and engage coworkers in debate — 14 percent
- It’s ok in small doses, as long as the conversation isn’t too heated — 67 percent
- It’s inappropriate — 18 percent
- Don’t know/No answer — 1 percent
- Total: 100 percent
Employees also were asked, “Thinking about the upcoming presidential election, how often do your coworkers talk about political campaigns or candidates on their job?” Their responses:
- Often — 39 percent
- Not often — 59 percent
- Don’t know/No answer — 2 percent
- Total: 100 percent
With the presidential election drawing near, it’s only natural for politics to be a topic of interest, however, employees should be careful to not allow discussions of the election to become a divisive issue.
As with any potentially sensitive subject, diplomacy is key. Imposing one’s political views on others is never ok. Employees also should not pressure coworkers to share which particular party or candidate they support.
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