Thanksgiving dinner, first dates, and in the office are great examples of times and places where talking politics is best avoided. After all, in a highly polarized American society, there’s a good chance of offending at least half the people in the room.
The bad news for employers and managers, however, is that experts expect political tensions to grow in the workplace this year.
Growing Tension
“As geopolitical tensions rise worldwide and with the upcoming presidential election, political discord will inevitably seep into the workplace,” says Mandy Price, cofounder and CEO of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) technology company Kanarys. “A recent survey revealed that a majority of workers—61% of them—have talked about politics in the workplace.”
Still, Price suggests, it’s important to recognize that not all employees feel comfortable with political discussion, especially in the workplace. “Additionally, company leaders face the challenge of navigating political issues and deciding whether to take a public stance, while also juggling the diverse generational perspectives on leadership weighing in on politics,” Price writes.
The Generational Divide in Political Discussions
The generational divide in comfort with political discussions adds another layer of complexity. While older generations might be more accustomed to keeping political views private in professional settings, younger generations, particularly Gen Z, often view the workplace as a platform for social advocacy and change. This disparity can create tension and misunderstanding among employees of different ages.
Company Leaders’ Role in Political Discourse
Leadership faces its own set of challenges in this environment. Balancing the need to maintain a neutral and inclusive workplace with the pressure to address significant political events and movements is no easy task. Leaders must navigate these waters carefully, ensuring their actions and words foster a respectful and supportive environment for all employees, regardless of their political beliefs.
Strategies for Managing Political Discussions
To manage these challenges, experts suggest several strategies. Creating clear policies on political discussions at work, providing training on respectful communication, and fostering an environment where diverse views are heard and respected can help. It’s also crucial for leaders to lead by example, demonstrating how to engage in civil discourse without alienating or offending others.
As political tensions continue to rise in 2024, it will be crucial for employers and managers to be able to navigate this landscape. By fostering a culture of respect, inclusivity, and open communication, organizations can maintain a productive and harmonious work environment, even amid the most challenging political climates.
Lin Grensing-Pophal is a Contributing Editor at HR Daily Advisor.