We Can't Talk about That at Work!

Preface

Don’t talk about race, politics, or religion at work!

Whether we like it or not, or are prepared for it or not, this adage no longer applies. People are talking about these issues, or at minimum, thinking about them, and it impacts productivity, engagement, and employees’ sense of safety and well-being. Considering we have been taught not to talk about polarizing topics, especially at work, we may not know how to do it very well. Thus, our attempts may lead to counterproductive, divisive dialogue. And as our workplaces become more diverse, these conversations are ever more complicated.

Effectively engaging in bold, inclusive conversations is hard work and is getting even harder due to the current global, political, and social climate. ...