In most circumstances, having differing opinions is healthy and constructive, often leading to positive and productive outcomes. In fact, in the workplace, we often encourage the opinions of others as a valuable source of creative input, helping shape the ideas fundamental to team dynamics and the success of our programs and policies. Sharing these opinions gives the entire team a sense of value, trust, respect, and belonging.
But there are also times when it’s best to be more selective about the opinions we share, what we say, how we say it, or even if we should say anything at all. Depending on the subject, the context, the situation, the audience, or the delivery, sharing certain opinions can lead to animosity, insult, division, and even hostility. Especially in situations where our opinions have nothing to do with accomplishing goals, it’s extremely important to be respectful of others and think through these decisions in a professional setting. The workplace is a place where everyone should feel safe, welcomed, respected, and included, and we have a professional responsibility to act and speak with reverence and discretion.
Where They Come From
Opinions are typically beliefs based on experience and information. They may be supported by facts or information believed to be factual, personal principles, cultural beliefs, or any number of influences that motivate our individual constitution. An opinion can be based on individual values or convictions, passionately held like a divine compass or something as simple or fleeting as a feeling or whim. We can even draw different opinions based on the same information depending on how we choose to read the signs.
Keep in mind that everyone believes their opinion is right—or it wouldn’t be their opinion. Some opinions may change with new information and insights, while others are deeply rooted and may never change regardless of any new arguments or substantiation that may be introduced. Some may grasp at the smallest crumbs of information that support their beliefs, no matter how baseless or insignificant, while openly dismissing or angrily rejecting prominent facts that refute their point of view.
Why It Matters
Okay, so there are no earth-shattering revelations thus far. But given how divisive things are today, whether it’s politics and the upcoming election, the ongoing conflicts across the globe, cultural or religious beliefs, or other dilemmas that we may be facing, it’s still important to lay the groundwork to ensure our interactions regarding certain opinions are civil and respectful. For example:
You have a right to your own opinion. But you don’t have a right to mine. We all have friends, family, and colleagues who think differently than we do about certain topics. That shouldn’t mean we love or respect them less or that we have a right to chastise them for the things they believe.
Just because our opinions are different doesn’t mean my opinion is wrong. Accept that you may never find common ground. Some topics don’t have easy answers, and it’s best to agree to disagree.
Having the “right” to voice an opinion doesn’t necessarily mean you should. For example, it might be your opinion that your boss dresses like a slob, but that doesn’t make it a good idea to say so. That can apply to a lot of situations.
Generalized opinions about any particular group are biased and stupid. While some are obvious, others can be just foolish. For example, “The Democrats” or “The Republicans” can quickly lead to thoughtless and insulting generalizations, just like any other inappropriate judgments we might make. We’re all Americans first, and that should matter most.
Professional platforms aren’t the place to discuss certain topics. I didn’t join these platforms to hear about your politics or thoughts on world affairs, whether I agree with you or not.
Keep an open mind. Conversation is an opportunity for better understanding. New information can reinforce our opinions—or may offer a different outlook. At least, there are times when it should.
Healthy dialogue, even when it involves social issues, can be positive and constructive. But it’s still wise to be prudent and selective about what we share, especially in the workplace or other forums intended for professional conduct and discussion. You have every right to be passionate about the things you believe. However, it’s still important to respect the choices of others. Ultimately, we’re all on the same side.