The workplace has historically been synonymous with gossip and idle talk—around the water cooler, the coffee machine, the kitchen. While at your average 9-5 job, talking about non-work related topics can make the day go by faster, strengthen workplace camaraderie, and develop friendships with coworkers. But obviously, (or if you have access to HR complaints, not so obviously), some topics are best reserved for after-work happy hours.

Religion: Unless you’re working for a religious organization or mission, specific conversations about religion should absolutely be avoided in the workplace. Aside from the obvious implications for political incorrectness, religion is a highly sensitive issue to some, and the slightest discussion of it can result in an explosive and hostile confrontation. No one wants to come to work each day and have others’ religious beliefs thrust onto him/her, so be considerate and conscientious when the subject of religion comes up, and avoid the topic altogether if possible.

Politics:  Discussing politics at work can be just as explosive as discussing religion, because similarly, it’s a sensitive and passion-fueled subject for many. What’s more dangerous about discussing politics is that even casual conversation about the day’s news events can trigger a full-blown political debate, leading your coworkers to feel alienated and oppressed. Especially during election years, charged political discussions should be avoided; a coworker’s political alignment can drastically (oftentimes negatively) affect how others perceive, and even respect, him/her. If you don’t want to labeled at work by your political beliefs/alignment, avoid discussing them!

Sex/Relationships: This is a prime example of TMI (Too Much Information), but you’d be surprised at how many people in the workplace don’t have a filter when it comes to discussing their personal lives and relationships. Personal matters are just that—personal, and meant to be kept to yourself or between you and your significant other. Publicly discussing your sex life or your relationship with your spouse has no place in the office, even if your coworker happens to be a close friend. It makes your other coworkers who are within earshot extremely uncomfortable and can even result in a sexual harassment complaint. Avoiding discussions about your personal life doesn’t make you a prude or goody-goody, it makes you a respectful coworker.

Money: This should be obvious; discussing how much money you earn/earned/wish you would earn is a ticking time bomb and an all-but-guaranteed method of getting your coworkers angry with you. You either make more or less than your coworkers—getting into specific conversations about your salary, or even your bonus (especially your bonus!), is a sure-fire way to turn a harmonious work environment into a hostile one.

Career Goals/Aspirations: Talking about your career goals in your place of work may not seem like a delicate topic, but if your aspirations are not aligned with the company’s goals, it may be best to avoid discussing them. If your goal is to leave the company as soon as something better becomes available, there’s no need to inform your fellow workers about your plans. Discussing your desire for moving up (and eventually out) will get you noticed by the higher-ups in your company, and not for good reason. If/when your boss finds out (and he/she eventually will), it might the last thing you discuss at your job before you get fired.

Health Problems/Death: When someone in your immediate or extended family is ill, you may seek comfort in commiserating with coworkers. But there’s no need to burden your fellow employees with your excessive and/or detailed tales of sorrow and pain. It’s sufficient to say that a recent illness in the family or the death of a loved one was the cause of your absence from work, but there’s no need to dwell on details. Reserve your discussions for after-work hours.

Having a comfortable working environment is essential to productivity and uplifted office morale. Keep your work place happy and comfortable for everyone by avoiding discussions that are inappropriate. Laughing

  Melody Yaghoubi
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