To Speak or Not to Speak: Talking Politics at Work

Various studies suggest that most organizations don’t have a formal policy about talking politics at work. So, odds are good it’s allowed in your workplace—but that doesn’t mean it’s welcomed or productive. If you’re in a setting where political talk is happening, here are a few principles to consider.

Know When to Say When

Your ability to contribute meaningfully to your organization doesn’t depend on your political opinions being known. If you’d rather not talk about politics at work, don’t. It’s more than okay to set a boundary. Try something simple like:

“These topics are important to me, and I do have opinions about them—but I’d rather not talk about them at work.”

You’re not being a coward. You’re being thoughtful.

Add a Dose of Uncertainty

If you choose to engage in political conversations, avoid phrases like “the fact of the matter is…” or “no reasonable person would believe that…” Those are quick ways to shut down dialogue and alienate others.

Certainty is often the enemy of learning. The more convinced you are that you’re right, the less you’ll listen, the less you’ll learn, and the less respectful you’ll be. If you’re going to talk politics, express your own views and beliefs with a degree of uncertainty.

Seek to Learn, Not to Win

Too many people walk into political conversations trying to prove a point or straighten someone out. But if your intent is to teach or triumph, it will come through in your tone, your body language, and your words, and you’re likely to provoke conflict. Instead, enter the conversations with a curious mind to see what you can learn.

Ask Questions

When someone shares an opinion you find repulsive, resist the urge to change their mind. Try to understand them. What shaped their viewpoint? What have they read or experienced? Ask these questions and listen intently. Curiosity isn’t weakness—it’s a sign of strength. It suggests you are secure enough to hear viewpoints contrary to your own without feeling threatened. You might find yourself learning something new, or at least gaining some sympathy for a different perspective.

Share Confidently, Not Arrogantly

Use language like:

• “In my experience…”

• “I believe that…”

• “From my point of view…”

You don’t need to drop the mic. It’s a conversation, not a conversion.

The bottom line: Protect yourself if you need to, but don’t confuse silence with wisdom or boldness with aggression. The best political conversations are grounded in respect, curiosity, and a willingness to understand and connect.