Home Business - Should You Discuss Religion and Politics Online?

by Traci Anderson | More from this Blogger

18 Feb 2007 07:14 PM

Last week I talked about the dangers of "airing dirty laundry online" including the possibility of being overlooked by a potential employer due to "TMI" (Too Much Information) posts.

As I read the follow up comments along with a related thread on a work-at-home forum I visit frequently, it made me wonder - are there other types of online information that could be used against us in a job search?

Have you ever engaged a supervisor in a political or religious debate? Here's just a quick suggestion...don't. I had a wonderful relationship with my former supervisor. We got along great. We enjoyed the same types of movies, music and "dark" humor.

Naturally, I assumed we would have similar political and religious views so I walked into the office one day and started complaining loudly about a political candidate I disagreed with.

My supervisors face turned three shades of green. Soon, instead of chatting about our favorite TV shows, we found ourselves engaged in heated debates about religion and politics. Suddenly, we weren't so "chummy" anymore. I often wondered if these debates would ever be held against me when I wanted a raise, time-off or when he was filling out performance evaluations.

Do you enjoy a good debate as much as I do? Do you want to work from home? You may not want to mix business, with pleasure.

What if a potential employer "Googled" your name right now? Would they learn your political affiliation? Would they know your religious background, or spiritual views? Might they pass you up for an opportunity if they don't agree with you? While I would like to say, "no"... it makes sense that employers would seek like-minded candidates (whether intentional or not).

As someone who can be a bit overly passionate about debating the issues, I would never suggest that you shouldn't share your beliefs online. Just be smart about how, where and to whom you do it.

Related Reading: Cyber Friendships - Are They a Good Thing?

A Resume for the Electronic Age

Learn more about Traci Anderson

Traci is a work-at-home-mom (WAHM) from beautiful Big Sky Country (Montana). She spends most of her time trying to keep up with two extremely energetic (but hysterical) Irish twins.

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