Of course the obvious action is Do Not Engage and Walk Away, however that's not always possible so this is my lighthearted take on avoiding a discussion that in today's divisive political environment could literally come to blows.
With that said, let's dive into the ultimate guide on how to avoid talking politics at the office and maintain a peaceful work environment. We all know that political discussions can create more drama than a reality TV show, so here are five top tips to help keep the peace.
Tip #1: Stick to Small Talk
When in doubt, talk about the weather, weekend plans, or the latest binge-worthy shows on Netflix. Trust me, everyone loves a good recommendation for a new series to watch.
Tip #2: Distract with Food
Who doesn't love food? Bring in some delicious treats to share with your coworkers and watch the conversation shift from politics to the best place to grab a slice of pizza in town. Or better yet, make something nostalgic from childhood. A talk about cooking in the kitchen with Nana will give everyone the warm fuzzies.
Tip #3: Change the Subject
If someone starts to bring up politics, quickly and subtly change the topic. You can transition with something lighthearted like, "Speaking of politics, did anyone watch the latest viral video of the cat Mama raising a squirrel baby?"
Tip #4: Be Switzerland
More seriously, stay neutral and don't take a side. Remember, you're here to work, not to debate the merits of healthcare reform. Once you engage, if in the minority, you may become an ongoing target for taunting. If in the majority, you may find yourself in the middle of mob mentality, bordering on bullying.
Tip #5: Set Boundaries
If all else fails, kindly let your coworkers know that you prefer not to discuss politics at work. If you're a leader, you should set the tone. If you're an Individual Contributor, you can set the example. Explain that you want to keep the office a positive and productive space.
So there you have it, five foolproof tips to avoid political discourse at the office. Now go forth and keep the peace!