Big, Fat Corporate Politics

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  doublea105/18/07 Report as spam
  1

  I would go.

  Its not right that politics and your job mix in this way but what should be and is are oftentimes blurred in the gray area of corporate life.
  
  If moving up to the next level within this company is important, I would go. If you see yourself working for your boss for the short or medium term, I would go. Keep in mind, other team members competing for a promotion will be advantaged by you not going (if that is important to you).
  
  Just show your face to your boss, shake a few hands, and duck out. These things are usually packed and nobody will notice. Have a few drinks, get some appetizers, make an excuse to cut short and move on.

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  jkc106/19/07 Report as spam
  2

  I would go also

  I would also attend. Business is about networking, meeting new people and making new connections. It doesn't sound as though he has asked you to contribute to the campaign, that would be another issue. However, you have the opportunity to make connections and be seen as well.
  
  Also consider the impact it will have on your relationship with your boss. Is this incident worth jeopordizing your relationship or your career in the long run?
  
  If you still feel it is against your best judgement to go, then don't, but also start looking for a new job. It sounds as though you would be happier with another company that does not provide these pressures.

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  spridgen06/29/07 Report as spam
  3

  News flash

  Having worked in politics, it's rare that those who attend events like this are not asked for money. Which is worse, not going to the event or going to a fundraiser, partaking of food and drink and then not contributing to the cause? In this case, I think it polite to kindly turn down the invitation with some good-natured ribbing about the candidate. In politics, a sense of humor is often appreciated and the backbone is as well.