How to Avoid a Political Minefield

The New York Times quoted Todd Fredrickson, managing partner of the Denver office, on October 20 in the article "How to Avoid a Political Minefield." With the presidential election season upon us, water-cooler conversations have become much more political. Although few employers actually prohibit political discussion, employees can be disciplined — and in some cases fired — for political activity at work. Todd noted that there is good reason for the adage about not discussing politics or religion in polite company. If election-related conversations turn into heated discussions, they could offend someone or become a workplace distraction. "If you're focusing on politics to the detriment of your job, you may be open to performance-related dismissal."