As voting day swiftly approaches, excitement for the future of our nation runs high – but so does tension. These emotions can permeate every aspect of our lives, including at the office. Research from BetterUp, an employee wellbeing platform, shows that negative feelings at work increase as election season rolls around, with the rate of people avoiding their co-workers because of political tension rising from 20% in June to over 60% in August.
By thoughtfully framing election-related communications through the lens of company values, leaders can transform this challenging period into an opportunity to strengthen organizational culture and support their employees’ wellbeing. Let’s explore three essential areas of focus for internal communications during election season.
Encouraging civic engagement
The cornerstone of any election-season communication strategy should be encouraging civic engagement while respecting an array of viewpoints. Companies can demonstrate their commitment to democratic values by implementing flexible scheduling policies that enable employees to vote in person and providing clear information about voting procedures.
However, it’s crucial to frame communications around company shared goals – particularly, diversity and inclusion. Consider implementing initiatives such as:
- “Time to Vote” programs that clearly communicate flexible scheduling options
- Nonpartisan voter registration information sessions
- Regular reminders about civil discourse and respectful workplace interactions
- Company-wide messaging that reinforces shared values of mutual respect and inclusion of diverse viewpoints
Understanding healthcare policy implications
With a new presidential administration often comes the implementation of policies impacting healthcare. Leaders should focus on providing objective information about potential policy changes and their effects on the organization, employees, and stakeholders.
For example, for some of our clients we produce “Behind the News” content on their internal channels that can be an effective tool in helping employees understand complex policy implications without taking political stances. This type of communication should:
- Present factual information about proposed healthcare policies
- Explain potential impacts on company operations and stakeholder relationships
- Maintain transparency about organizational preparations for various outcomes
Prioritize employee’s wellness
Whether it comes from political disagreements or anxiety over outcomes, presidential elections bring on a season of heightened stress. Employers are responsible for letting workers know that their wellbeing is a top priority. Messaging should remind employees of the mental health and wellbeing resources available to them and encourage them to take time to check in with themselves, each other and their loved ones. Regular reminders about available resources, including Employee Assistance Programs and conflict resolution services, can help maintain a supportive work environment.
Effective internal and employer communications during election seasons require careful planning, sensitivity to different perspectives, and a steadfast commitment to shared organizational values.
Ready to strengthen your organization’s internal communications strategy? Contact Green Room for expert guidance on employee engagement best practices for election season’s challenges.
