It can highlight controversial and opposing views, creating tension between co-workersMany employees think gossiping or jesting with colleagues is harmless conversation, but what you talk about in the workplace can change the way you are perceived and greatly impact career development.
Political views
Politics can be a sensitive subject in the office. It can highlight controversial and opposing views, creating tension between co-workers.
Avoid detailed discussions on how the country should be run and the ideal way that people should live. Trying to convince people you are correct and their political views are wrong achieves nothing.
Your religion
A workplace can include people of diverse backgrounds, ethnicity and faiths. Religious beliefs are very personal, which can make fellow workers uncomfortable talking about it. However, this does not mean you should conceal your own belief, but be respectful and open minded to other’s opinions.
Intimate relationships
Talking about your intimate relationship with your co-workers is something you should avoid. Steer clear of anything that remotely resembles sexual connotations.
It can make colleagues feel awkward, uncomfortable and even offended, creating a hostile working environment that could even lead to filing a sexual harassment complaint.
Family problems with parents, children and marriage
Perhaps a family member is terminally ill, your child is unhappy in school or you’re going through a divorce. Life has its moments of crisis, so ensure you have a support system in place where you can discuss your issues outside of work with a close friend, or even a counsellor.
Leave your personal problems at home as much as possible, as it could become a topic for gossip, distracting you and other staff members, and affecting your effectiveness to carry out your job, your availability and your wellbeing.
Your career development
Moving forward and developing a career helps motivate people and increase fulfilment. Aspiring to climb the ladder and progress you career is an excellent attribute, but consider how talking about it with co-workers and your superiors may be perceived.
It may make them question how dedicated you are to your current position.It may be entirely laudable that you want to progress within your current company, so judge an appropriate time to discuss this with your boss. Your boss may be busy, but until you talk to them, they may not have realised your suitability for a promotion.
If you decide to leave your current job, try to not tell anyone within the workplace until you are certain about moving on or you have an alternative job offer.
Your health issues
You may have a chronic illness, disability or another kind of medical issue. Try to stay focused on your work and do not dwell on the issue, otherwise co-workers and superiors may think you are unable to do your job effectively and become unsympathetic.
If you anticipate that your job will be impacted, you need to let your boss or employer know, as you may be entitled to sick leave.
Recruiters love this COMPLETE set of Accredited Recruitment & HR Training – View Training Brochure
