Recent workplace political discussions have turned up the volume, making more than one in three employees uncomfortable, according to a survey from the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). Once focused and professional, our workplaces are now doubling as arenas for political debates. In this blog, we’ll dive into the issue of political conversations at work, how they affect employees, and ways to maintain an intentionally inclusive culture.
Why the Uptick in Political Chatter?
Political talk is rising at work, thanks to the polarized state of local and national politics and the ease of voicing opinions through social media. The line between a healthy discussion and disruptive conflict can get blurry, with everyone more connected to current events.
The Uncomfortable Truth
According to a Zety Workplace survey, over 33% of respondents felt uneasy during political conversations at work. This discomfort arises from several sources:
- Divisiveness: Politics often revolves around divisive topics, causing tension among colleagues.
- Productivity Dip: Heated debates divert attention from tasks, impacting overall productivity.
- Fear of Repercussions: Some employees hesitate to express their opinions, fearing backlash or discrimination based on their beliefs.
The Impact on Well-being
Prolonged exposure to political conflicts can affect employees’ mental and emotional well-being. Promptly addressing these concerns is essential to maintain a healthy workplace culture.
Legal Concerns
With limited exceptions, the Constitution’s “freedom of speech” guarantee applies only to government action and not private employers or employees. The National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) protects various speech regarding employees’ workplace conditions, unionization, and other labor-related matters. However, political discourse is not covered in a private workplace.
Engaging in political discussions at work can also bring additional legal concerns to the forefront. Conversations about political candidates often touch on sensitive topics such as race, gender, age, or religion. All of these topics are protected by law, unlike political speech. These discussions could potentially lead to claims of harassment, workplace discrimination, or retaliation.
Managers must ensure employees know the legal boundaries surrounding political discussions, such as discrimination or harassment laws.
Navigating the Political Waters
Balancing employees’ rights to express their opinions is crucial while creating a respectful and inclusive atmosphere. Organizations should offer high-quality training sessions focusing on diversity, inclusion, and respectful communication and equip employees with the tools to engage in productive discussions.
Promoting an Inclusive Company Culture
An inclusive organizational culture significantly influences business success and mitigates risks. Engaged and happy employees excel in their roles, exhibit higher productivity, and inspire their colleagues. However, political discussions can have the opposite effect. Political debates are associated with a phenomenon known as “political depression,” which can have a direct and adverse impact on employees’ moods, subsequently affecting their overall productivity.
Conclusion
The increasing prevalence of heated political discussions at work is a challenge employers and employees must tackle. Data from Zety and SHRM underline the discomfort and tension these discussions can bring.
