What to say if a hiring manager asks, 'Who are you voting for?' during a job interview
"There's a reason for the old adage, 'Never talk to strangers about religion, sex, or politics,'" says Lynn Taylor, a national workplace expert and author of "Tame Your Terrible Office Tyrant: How to Manage Childish Boss Behavior and Thrive in Your Job." "These days, talking politics with even close friends or family can be flammable."
If a hiring manager starts talking politics and decides to tell you how they feel about the candidates, or who they plan to vote for, you'll need to use your best diplomacy and avoid getting drawn into a potentially heated, no-win debate, she says.
"The hiring manager may appear laid back and open-minded in the beginning of the dreaded conversation, but don't take the bait," she warns. "Take a backseat. You could be lured into an uncomfortable dialogue and put to the test - taking the proverbial hot seat to a whole new level."
Even if you agree with the hiring manager's politics, going down this path can still be perilous. "The interviewer may continue drilling down to your stance on controversial subjects, evaluating whether you're fully on the same page. It can become a bottomless pit if the interviewer is fervent."
If you're asked point-blank who you'd vote for, you have several good options, all of which will keep you out of hot water, says Taylor. Here are some responses to consider: