Talking politics at work can lead to trouble.
- People are passionate about their politics, but arguments can be distracting and unproductive, even hostile
- You can create a policy, but it's unrealistic to think that no one will discuss politics during an election cycle
- Remind employees that everyone should feel safe, welcomed, respected, and included at work
- You can limit discussions that aren't work-related, but you cannot limit the employees' right to discuss work conditions (pay, safety, etc.)
- You can ban clothing with graphics or slogans, but you can't prohibit employees from wearing union buttons
- Don't try to influence employees' votes, ask them whom they're voting for, or intimidate/retaliate around politics
- Reinforce social media, dress code, anti-harassment, diversity/inclusion, and non-solicitation policies
- If you need to address disruptions at work, address the disruption, not the political affiliation
- Get ahead of this by reminding your team of your core values and your expectation of professionalism
- Treat offenders of both parties consistently
- Let employees know that they can walk away if a co-worker is confronting them with political challenges
Interested in creating policies that promote safety in the workplace? Contact our HR team today!
