Getting along with everyone at work (class identity issues)

[Nikia]

I work in a technical position at a small company (about 50 people) where I am required to work closely with everyone. The production people are paid relatively poorly. Managment is rumored to be paid well, although I don't know that for sure. I wouldn't say that I am paid well, but I am paid enough or I would not have left my former company which paid production workers better.
Anyway, I made a comment in mixed company that made several production workers put me in the ovrepaid category. That sort of bothers me.
Is it possible though to be neutral? It isn't my fault that they are poorly paid but I want to have a career and rise in position and salary. I guess that does make me sort of identify with the "overpaid" management. I want to get along with everyone and feel bad about causing these production people to be offended though.

[philosophie_en_rose]

1. Just be nice.

And sensitive. It sounds like the workers in production are probably struggling. Mentioning a big purchase or something is likely to make you appear to be insensitive. (My maid took too long to clean my new Benz, but at least she found my spare diamond grill.)

But just being nice and competent will do wonders. If some people still don't like you, there is nothing you can do about that. Just continue to be pleasant competent. The real problem is with management, not you. Don't get caught in the middle.

[rug]

2. No, you can't remain neutral.

[LostInAnomie]

3. Yep, bougeiouse or proletariat.

Choose wisely.

[idgiehkt]

4. production always thinks non-production is overpaid.

no matter what. It'll pass.

[Jimbo S]

5. Show them respect, and they will repsect you back.

Reinforce when they're doing a good job. Engage in small talk, take an interest in their hobbies.

Chances are they won't view you as out to get them. But dynamics are different from organization to organization. I don't know the specifics of your workplace.