By David W. Ballard
In the midst of the US presidential campaign, the American Psychological Association (APA) surveyed a representative sample of the American work force, and found that one in four employees was negatively affected by political talk at work.
Although some workers bonded with their colleagues over shared political views, others said that team cohesiveness suffered and that they perceived more workplace hostility.
To manage these tensions, just over half of American workers said they simply steered clear of political conversations at work, but one in five reported avoiding certain co-workers because of their political views.
The political climate didn’t affect everyone equally. Men were more likely than women, and younger workers were more likely than older employees, to have experienced negative consequences of political discussions at work during the 2016 election season.
None of these feelings seem to have dissipated since the election. The preelection tensions fueling anger, polarization and conflict are still in full force. In another APA survey, conducted in early January 2017, more than half of Americans cited the current political climate as a significant source of stress.
- What can employers do? Having a clear policy that describes limitations on political activities in the workplace is a good start, but political conversations are still going to happen. The most effective approach is to promote a respectful work culture in which difficult conversations and disagreements can take place in a civil environment.
Senior leaders and supervisors can communicate a powerful message by modeling the behaviors they’re trying to promote. Focusing on common goals and shared values is another way to bring people together despite their differences. When political turmoil is creating tension and distraction, concentrating on work and accomplishing something together can be a welcome reprieve.
- What can employers do? First, keep it civil. Be respectful of opinions that differ from your own and be open to hearing and understanding others’ perspectives, even if you don’t agree with them. Constant exposure to political news updates and social-media posts can heighten your stress and leave you feeling overwhelmed. Stay informed, but know your limits.
David W. Ballard is the director of the American Psychological Association’s Center for Organizational Excellence.