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With election day now here, whatever the outcome it is unlikely to end the debate, and employers should be prepared for it to continue in the workplace, says one survey.
A recent survey by ResumeBuilder.com highlights the impact of the election on employee morale, workplace conflict, and privacy concerns in the office.
The survey of 1,000 US managers revealed that the election has already stirred significant unrest in workplaces, with nearly three in ten managers (27%) reporting that the political climate has led to disputes among employees.
Verbal disagreements, strained relationships, and a reduction in team cohesion are common, according to the survey, as 53% of managers report witnessing verbal spats and 63% note deteriorating relationships among team members with opposing political views.
Arguments affecting productivity
Political discussions are taking a toll on productivity as well, with 30% of managers observing declines in output due to distractions from election-related arguments.
Additionally, about 25% have chosen to work remotely during election week to avoid conflicts with coworkers. Other measures include HR-mandated conflict resolution sessions and, in rare cases, terminations stemming from political disputes.
In response to one of America’s most divisive elections, 32% of companies have banned political symbols or paraphernalia, while 27% have barred political discussions altogether in a bid to maintain workplace neutrality.
Yet the response to workplace conflicts has not been limited to outright bans. Privacy concerns have arisen as some managers reportedly monitor internal discussions, heightening employee fears around employer snooping.
Politcal conflict in the workplace
Stacie Haller, ResumeBuilder’s Chief Career Advisor, acknowledges the fine line HR departments must walk: “Political conflicts can easily disrupt workplace harmony,” she said. “Employees need reassurance that their perspectives are respected, while HR must maintain a productive and cohesive work environment.”
Some 70% of managers anticipate that post-election tensions will continue to escalate, with many fearing that disagreements will deepen regardless of the outcome. Among those surveyed, 66% expect conflict to increase no matter which candidate wins, while 15% believe that a Trump victory would drive further discord and 19% foresee a similar reaction if Harris emerges victorious.
Remote work has emerged as a popular strategy, with nearly 40% of companies permitting employees to work from home this week to reduce stress and avoid conflict. The flexibility not only provides employees with the freedom to participate in voting but also aims to prevent workplace tensions from boiling over.
For HR professionals, the election poses significant challenges, requiring a nuanced approach to uphold both workplace policies and employees' rights to freedom of expression. HR leaders are tasked with navigating a high-stakes environment while setting clear guidelines for decorum and respecting the diversity of viewpoints within their teams.
As tensions linger post-election, especially if the result is disputed, employers may find valuable lessons in adapting policies that balance conflict management with a commitment to respecting employees' voices, setting a useful precedent for future hard fought elections.
