Religion in the Social Networking Workplace

Religion in the workplace is always a hot topic (religion is a button-pusher no matter where you bring it up), and in social networking it takes on a whole new angle.

As entrepreneurs, we don’t have to abide by any company policies, we can be as upfront and outspoken as we like. Or can we?

Sites like Facebook give users the opportunity to define their spiritual and religious beliefs. For many people, it’s an honest expression of who they are. In the eyes of some, it can sour a person’s opinion before the first “hello”.

I’m of the “let’s all get along” persuasion, and in that spirit I offer some tips on dealing with religion and social networking:

1. If a person’s stated religious or spiritual beliefs touch a negative button in you, ask yourself “Why?” It could have more to do with YOU and your issues.

2. What symbols set off your alarms? The Jesus fish? The Star of David? The Crescent Moon? The Wiccan Pentacle? The Yin-Yang? Once again, ask yourself “Why?”

3. Are you more bothered by the imposition of unsolicited information than by the information itself? In other words, would you rather folks just keep this stuff to themselves and stick to business? Is THAT the issue, not the religion?

Social networking gives us the chance to develop the know-like-trust factor by sharing more personal information. It could do wonders for your business or it could alienate you from profits.

As for me, I really enjoy people and my goal is to find areas where we’re going to connect. When my husband was hospitalized twice this last year, I received prayers and blessings from all religious and spiritual walks for his speedy recovery. Same thing when my Mom was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2006,  same thing when my child had heart surgery in 2003.

When someone sends me unsolicited invitations to share their beliefs, or acts bigoted or judgmental, then I step back. They’re not coming from a spiritual angle, they’re coming from ego and control.

There is balance in everything- in the the information you put out about your business and in the information you put out about yourself. Look for connecting points, eliminate unnecessary distractions, be yourself and keep being a source of good in the world.