Politics at the Workplace — Please, Don't Go There

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!