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Political proselytizing at work

May 19, 4:34 PM

SF Workplace Examiner

Joelle Ryssemus Sullivan

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James in San Francisco writes, “I have a group of co-workers who are very involved in politics. When election time comes each side gets very active in the workplace trying to recruit votes. I don’t discuss my political beliefs at the office but lately that position has resulted in each side assuming I support the other and has caused me issues in working on projects or certain teams. Help.”

Few work environments find a comfortable pairing with politics. Unlike other things that are legally prohibited from being used as the basis for a workplace decision (know as protected characteristics) political affiliation in and of itself does not form the basis for illegal discrimination. Nonetheless if politics is causing workplace issues for you or others there ways to address it. First, see if your company has a policy prohibiting or restricting politics at work. All employees must abide by company policies. Second, let co-workers know that you are uncomfortable with political talk at work. It sends a clearer message then silence alone. Third, encourage coworkers to take their own political debate outside work. Rallies, public sessions and social events are more appropriate forums. Forth, be consistent. If politics are off-limits at work be sure that all politics are kept out. Don’t just ban those that generate strong controversy. Fifth, escalate the situation to human resources and management. At the end of the day everyone is at work to do one thing; work. Your company is certainly interested in hearing about non-work activities that negatively impact productivity on the job. As always when everyone is being respected at work, it’s all good.

email your workplace issues to joelle@hrchaeology.com

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Political proselytizing at work

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