Political discussions in the office employee, office, political, only, like

btcapital

Hey guys,

I wanted to know what you all thought about how to manage political discussions in the office. I sit on a trading desk where people are very free about expressing their opinions and enjoy taking a political stance. I enjoy the lively and engaging discussions, though I'm wondering about my ideal level of preparation in these conversations.

First off, I've only been here for a few weeks for my internship -- I'm not a full-time, long-term employee like some of the others. I've also generally been cautious about discussing politics in the workplace because I don't necessarily want to alienate anyone, and because I've always been told to be careful about talking about potentially controversial matters like politics and religion in the workplace. However, sometimes these guys want to loop me in and hear what I think, and I feel that if I try to tactfully analyze both sides of an issues and "play it safe," people really aren't looking for some philosophical waxing -- I feel like they just want to hear me take a stance, however brash it may be, and move on.

Can anyone advise on how to best handle situations like this? As you all know, I'm not typically one to hesitate expressing my opinions, but am not used to politically-charged banter in the workplace.

Chuckrox

the best way to resolve these discussions is to throw the first punch.

another good sign of dominance is to smudge the other persons screen - some people can't handle it.

neil1234

trading desk eh............all you need to know is that o is the antichrist turning america into cuba

busterbluth

in all honesty, the worst thing to say is nothing at all. no one likes a downer.

genuinecfa

Just agree with whatever their opinion is?

May be hard to keep you from contradicting yourself, though.

Valores

Agree with your boss, and crush his/her enemies with the power of your logic.

That always works pretty well, unless your boss is on the chopping block.


As for your opinions, they become valuable as your net worth rises. And there's always a nice place for them in your memoirs.


Yes, I'm feeling cynical today. ;-)

king_kong

As long as you are not a raging homosexual who wants to legalize gay marriage, I think they will be more than okay with you sharing your political views.

Oh and don't be too cocky... well not until you get a permanent position...

Windjammer

I only discuss politics with those who have no influence on my bonus. Same thing for religion.

luda002

Talk about how much you hate Barney Frank. Unless you actually like him in which case you should probably find a new career.

Unforseen

talking about weiner should be safe