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I had conflicting thoughts about Basecamp’s decision to ban “societal and political discussions” at work this week.
A 100% focus on the task at hand seems refreshing. But...doesn’t it also feel like a total cop out?
The dichotomy hit me: “political” and “societal” discussions are NOT the same thing.
I hate talking politics at work. I’m an OG politician hater. They’re all crooks. Sure, some are worse than others. But no one is worth getting excited about.
And politics is a big distraction from what really matters: us.
You know, society.
I work in recruiting. It's the business of people. Maybe that’s why I have a different perspective:
Societal issues ARE workplace issues.
I’m trying to imagine someone telling me I can’t talk about ageism.
Or the pay gap.
Or lack of inclusion.
No chance.
I get the other side. When something big happens, corporations pump out the virtue signaling. There’s a scramble for PR to tweet “the correct take.” It’s nauseating.
But that’s no reason to throw your hands in the air and give up.
Maybe the employee experience field needs a rethink. But it shouldn’t be thrown in the trash.
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