Politics and Work, Work and Politics

Amid elections, politics, different times of opinions and outcomes – it is easy to get caught up.

Caught up, mostly, with your own feelings…feelings that are then fueled by others with similar (or better yet, differing) opinions.

And this is normal.

We have opinions, we cast votes, we choose different sides.

And we should.

That is what democracy is all about. That is what America is all about.

Having an opinion.

As a professional in a managerial role, I felt the need to discuss the importance of the “time and place” issue.

As any level of employee, and especially when in a leadership role, it is important to remember the separation of your personal views, and your work.

It is important to remember that while it may seem like a no-brainer to you, while you may be furious, upset, and even hurt around a decision – there are more than likely other employees (your co-workers) in your organization that feel exactly the opposite. That actually supported that decision that you feel so strongly against.

Be it a colleague, a subordinate, or a boss – someone will disagree with you.

And they are often too timid to say.

Everyone is entitled to their opinion. Do not make someone feel embarrassed, bad, or worthless based on their decision or views.

Do not make someone feel uncomfortable walking through the doors at work. These may be your best employees.

Understand that there is a time and place. There are meeting rooms, there are after hours. Understand that not everyone sees it your way.

Work and politics, politics and work.

Yet another difficult, blurred line in the world we live in today.

Hopefully this will help you draw it.