More than 6,000 Beyond.com Network users weigh-in on the issue of
political debate in the workplace
PHILADELPHIA--(Business Wire)--
Beyond.com, Inc., the world's largest network of online niche
career communities, polled business professionals across its network
of more than 15,000 sites to discover how professionals feel about
discussing politics in the workplace.
Politics, specifically the upcoming Presidential election, have
dominated the news, media and conversations across the country for
months. For many professionals, however, the overwhelming response is
that political discussions have no place in the workplace. In fact,
more than 6,000 Beyond.com Network visitors responded to a recent poll
question:
"Do you find political discussions appropriate in the workplace?"
-- 49% - No, it's inappropriate to talk politics at work.
-- 25% - I have no opinion.
-- 18% - Yes, you should be able to talk politics at work.
-- 8% - Despite my opinion, it's against company policy.
The results of the poll indicate that almost half of professionals
think it is inappropriate to talk politics in the workplace. However,
as the presidential field narrows and the general election quickly
approaches, it may be more difficult than ever to avoid - and more
tempting to engage in - political conversations with colleagues.
"Although many professionals may have strong feelings regarding
their political affiliation or candidate choice, it is important for
them to be mindful of other people's views and opinions in the
workplace," says Rich Milgram, CEO of Beyond.com, Inc. "Because the
issue tends to become emotionally charged, it is best to keep strong
opinions regarding political issues at a minimum in the office to
maintain focus and productivity among your co-workers."
Below are some tips on how professionals can help prevent conflict
regarding politics in the workplace:
-- Politely Excuse Yourself - If a conversation with a group of
co-worker turns political and you find yourself uncomfortable,
it is acceptable to politely excuse yourself from the
conversation.
-- Change the Topic - If a co-worker begins talking politics, it
is perfectly fine to make it clear that you have no opinion
and change the subject. Don't feel obligated to respond to a
political question or comment that you don't feel comfortable
with. Simply move on to another topic.
-- Speak Up If You Feel Uncomfortable - If a co-worker becomes
persistent with their political views, politely but firmly let
them know you are not comfortable discussing this topic in the
office.
-- Agree to Disagree - If you encounter an unavoidable political
conversation at work, it is best to think before you speak.
Don't let the conversation become heated. If you realize that
your opinions differ drastically, it is best to agree to
disagree and move on.
-- Know Your Audience - Before engaging in a political
conversation; it is always best to know your audience and
adjust your conversation accordingly. It is also important to
be aware of other people's expressions during the conversation
to be sure all participants remain comfortable.
-- When in Doubt, Refer to Your Office Policy - Because politics
can often times create strong feelings and controversy, many
employers have incorporated information within their Corporate
Policy to provide appropriate guidelines and practices when
engaging in political conversations at work.
For more career tips and resources, please visit the Beyond.com
Career Resource Center.
About Beyond.com, Inc.
Beyond.com, Inc. is the world's largest network of online niche
career communities, powering more than 15,000 geographic and
industry-specific sites. We are dedicated to helping business
professionals, corporations and vertical communities connect with each
other by providing relevant career search services, networking tools
and portal software solutions. The Beyond.com Network attracts a niche
audience of job seekers, professionals and corporations and delivers
quality, targeted results through a multitude of online media and
advertising models, including: recruitment advertising, email
marketing, banner advertising and other lead generation vehicles.
Beyond.com is named to Inc. Magazine's prestigious 'Inc. 500' list
of the fastest growing private companies in 2007 and is a Safeguard
Scientifics (NYSE:SFE) partner company. www.Beyond.com
Beyond.com, Inc.
Tara Gerard, Marketing & Communications Associate
610-878-2800
TaraG@Beyond.com
or
PAN Communications
Jeffrey Dillow, Account Manager
978-474-1900
Beyond@Pancomm.com
Copyright Business Wire 2008
