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This Election Cycle, Use These Strategies in the Workplace
Teams count on their leaders to set the tone.
Presidential elections typically see higher voter turnout, heightened media coverage and polarizing debate. In the run-up to Nov. 5 and even for a while afterward, the strain will build: People might question their trust in media, experience tension with family members or generally feel more anxious. All that can spill into the workplace.
According to Gartner research, 36% of U.S. employees surveyed reported that the topic of the 2020 U.S. presidential election had led them to avoid talking to or working with a coworker because of their political beliefs. This year, more than 1 in 4 younger employees reported feeling stressed out because of political discussions at work, and more than twice as many men as women said political talk is making them less productive, according to a survey from the American Psychological Association.
Insightful leaders can minimize these impacts, however. According to the Edelman Trust Barometer, business is the most trusted institution in the U.S. for the fourth consecutive year. And while PWC says there is a trust gap — 86% of business executives think employee trust is high, compared to 67% of employees who say they highly trust their employer — 67% is still an impressive number.
As leaders, it’s incumbent on us to set the tone in our workplaces. Through proactive internal communications, we can reinforce employee trust and use it to reduce any disruption the election cycle may cause.
Here are our tips:
Lead with empathy. In a nonpartisan way, acknowledge that employees may have strong feelings. If needed, create space to express thoughts and concerns, including one-on-one meetings or anonymous feedback channels. Demonstrate empathy and respect in your own interactions and remind managers to do the same.
Set the tone and lead by example. In a combative world, let the workplace be a space where we lower the temperature. If your team finds themselves in an escalated conversation, encourage them to pause and recalibrate. You might say, “I recognize this is a sensitive topic and emotions are high. Let’s collect our thoughts and come back with the goal of finding a path forward together.”
Reiterate the rules of engagement. Leaders have an opportunity to deliver an important message: no matter what your political affiliation or who you are voting for, we are here to work together to accomplish specific goals for our organization, partners and customers. We are good at what we do because we are different, and our unique perspectives make our organization stronger.
Stay neutral. Maintain a neutral stance on political matters to avoid alienating any colleagues. Focus on creating an environment where everyone feels valued.
Anticipate the day after the election. Emphasize that while political opinions may vary, mutual respect is non-negotiable. Recognize that the election may have been stressful for many employees. A simple message acknowledging that fact can go a long way toward showing empathy and understanding.
Encourage your team to vote. Allow flexibility in work schedules to accommodate voting and other election-related activities. This shows that you respect their civic duties and personal commitments.
Ultimately, this last point is the most important, because it encourages your team to use their voice where it matters most. After all, the ballot box is where all of these opinions are meant to be heard.
Moore works with organizations to develop internal communications strategies, plans and programs that align and inspire teams, turning every employee into a champion for your brand.
We can also help you prepare for and effectively communicate during a crisis. Reach out to Audrey Goff or call 850.224.0174 if you’d like to explore how to elevate your internal communications or crisis communications plans.
