Navigating Election Season at Work

Election season is in full swing, and while political discussions and debates might be buzzing all around, it’s essential to set clear expectations within your workplace to keep things running smoothly. It’s unrealistic to expect that these conversations won’t surface over the coming weeks, so here are a few key points we recommend all companies cover with their teams:

Voting Time Off Policies

Ensure employees understand your company’s policy for voting time off. Is it paid or unpaid? How much notice is required? And how much time off will they get? Each state has its own rules (over 20 states have specific laws!), so it’s important to check the requirements where your business operates.

Political Activities in the Workplace

Make sure your policy on political activities is clear. Remind employees about any limitations on political discussions, wearing political apparel, displaying signs, or participating in campaigning or fundraising within the workplace. If you don’t already have a policy in place, now is the perfect time to create one—and we’d be happy to help you draft it!

Reinforce Conduct and Inclusion Policies

Remind everyone about your core values, code of conduct, and/or inclusion policies to ensure respectful and inclusive discussion. It’s crucial to remind your team that discrimination or harassment based on political beliefs will not be tolerated.

Acknowledge the Stress of Election Season

Recognize that it is normal to feel heightened levels of stress and distraction during election season. This is a good time to remind employees of the support resources you offer, such as an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) or mental health services.

At the end of the day, these moments remind us of the “human” in human resources. We all bring our unique thoughts, experiences, and opinions to the table, which naturally influences how we show up at work. By reinforcing these expectations, you’re ensuring a respectful, productive environment where everyone can focus on what brings you together.