How do you do that without compromising yourself politically?

Good question; two parts I think: 1. I try to present the situation as neutrally/objectively as possible (inasmuch as any one of us can do so of course:). At the very least, present both aspects of the conflict or situation; 99% of the time, disagreements and politics are not because people are evil, stupid, or actively trying to sabotage - underneath it are differing goals and priorities which create competing or conflicting situations. By presenting the potential underlying differing goals and perspectives, I can prepare those coming in, without necessarily discussing something I cannot/would not be prepared to face in the open.

2. At the end of the day, I need to trust people coming on my team :)

Thanks.