URMC / Employee Assistance Program / News & Events / UR Medicine EAP Blog / November 2020 / Election Politics and the Workplace Election Politics and the Workplace It’s common courtesy to avoid political discussions at work. Still, they do happen. If resistance is futile, these tips can help prevent a fracas: Learn to self-intervene. When tension builds, move the discussion along to more work-related matters. Check your visceral reaction. Politics prompts a "flight or fight" response. Don’t give in to it. This dynamic is reinforced by the culture, but succumbing to it can make it seem okay to get personal. Avoid demonization or moral indictment of a coworker. Do a "reboot." End political discussions with a verbal affirmation that despite differences, you really do value your workplace relationships. UR Medicine EAP is brought to you by Well-U, helping eligible individuals to assess issues, and provide short-term counseling and referrals. Keith Stein | 11/5/2020 You may also like Design a Conflict Resolution Strategy Improve the Relationship with Your Boss Language That Empowers Workplace Diversity Not Enough Feedback?