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Talking Politics: At Work and on the Job Search Posted: 20 Oct 2016 07:51 AM PDT Is it appropriate to talk about politics at work? What should you do if your employer, coworker, or interviewer starts a heated political discussion or asks to know who you plan to vote for?Every four years, our election cycle becomes a high profile event that dominates media outlets and dinner tables across the country. When an election becomes a spectacle, the subject may be unavoidable. So what are the rules around political topics at work? What if an interviewer accidentally – or purposely – asks your opinion on the election? How do you navigate politics in the workplace, whether you are employed or are a jobseeker? Here are a few considerations to keep in mind. Politics = Hot PotatoWhenever a political topic comes up at work, it’s wise to think carefully before you speak. You won’t lose your job (legally) or your job offer over perceived differences of political opinion. But your working relationships may be strained if you charge forward without respect or consideration for other viewpoints. And keep in mind that you can’t take anything back once you’ve said it. Jobseekers: Check Your ProfilesIf you share public political posts on Facebook, Twitter, or your blog, recognize that your interviewers will find your posts and they will (maybe unconsciously) factor them into a hiring decision. So use your judgement. If your political posts are too important to set to “private,” then so be it. But if you’d rather keep your cards against your vest, lock down your privacy settings so employers can only see what you want them to see. Either way, make an active decision; don’t be blindsided. Resume RevelationsIf certain resume details—like the names of your previous employers—reveal your political inclinations, that’s okay; you don’t have to erase past employers from your profile in a desperate attempt to cover your political tracks. If you worked for a campaign or an openly political organization, it’s still not appropriate for your interviewer to confirm the link between what’s on your resume and what’s in your heart. Again, stay in control of the conversation and share only what you choose. Casual ConversationsIf an interviewer asks you to share your Election Day intentions, they’re technically breaking the law. This doesn’t mean you have to storm out. If your interviewer happened to slip because it’s the morning after a heated presidential debate, then remain neutral (don’t agree or disagree), change the subject, and move on. If someone at work asks for your thoughts on a particular political topic and you don’t feel like sharing your views, don’t. Give your best Mona Lisa smile and change the subject. If you want to engage, make sure to keep your conversation civil and respectful, as you would with any other topic. Remember that talking about politics at work is pretty tricky. People have strong feelings about their beliefs, and it is usually a good idea to not bring politics into the workplace. Stay Politically Alert in Your InterviewsAs mentioned above, it’s not legal for your interviewers to ask outright for your political opinions. But most employers know this, and if they really want the dirt on who you plan to vote for, they can easily slip the question into the conversation sideways. Watch out for statements like, “How do feel about (a specific political issue affecting your industry)?” or “Around here, we’re obviously not big fans of proposition 294. I assume you’re not either. Right?” or “Our culture here tends to lean to the right/left. So you’ll fit in better if you’re a registered republican/democrat”, or simply “Are you politically active?” These types of comments and questions may even be illegal. Don’t take the bait. In the workplace and on the job search, the best way to earn respect is to show respect in turn. Keep this in mind, and when the conversation turns political, stay respectful and diplomatic—no matter who you plan to vote for in November. For more on how to handle the trickier social aspects of your job search, turn to the resources and tips available on LiveCareer. The post Talking Politics: At Work and on the Job Search appeared first on LiveCareer Blog. |
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