With the upcoming 2024 Presidential election, here are some tips to prevent and tame workforce tensions during this increasingly polarizing political landscape. Some minor tweaks to your company policies and leadership involvement can prevent major headaches this election season.
- Tame the Talk While employees may assert they have a right to free speech, for the private sector there is no constitutional right to engage in political speech in the workplace. (For those in the public sector, different rules apply.) You can adopt policies and guidelines for appropriate behavior and communication by prohibiting disruptive or harassing speech that creates a hostile environment. You need to be consistent and be careful not to discriminate against employees because of their political beliefs or affiliations. You can also prohibit any political activities on company premises.
- Dial in the Dress Code You can enact a dress code that prohibits political hats, t-shirts, and other items. Ensure that it is worded to be neutral and doesn’t single out any particular political view. It would be improper to discipline one employee for wearing a MAGA cap while permitting another employee to wear a Harris/Walz button. Likewise, you can establish reasonable, consistent limits on posters and other workplace displays.
- Set the Tone Since even inadvertent comments can make employees feel awkward if they hold different political beliefs, it is important to set the right tone. Senior leaders should communicate that there are different viewpoints and that all employees will be respected, regardless of their personal political beliefs. This would also be a good time to remind employees of the policies related to political speech and dress. If a political discussion does come up, employees should respectfully let the other person know that political speech in the workplace is not permitted. Managers should be trained in how to spot unproductive or heated conversations and to address them appropriately. You should also consider designating an HR department contact for managers to reach out to with questions or concerns.
Using these tips will help maintain a professional and productive working environment no matter what political beliefs your employees hold.
By Samantha Brinkley, MA, SHRM-SCP
