7 in 10 managers concerned about increased workplace tensions after US election

 

One-third of managers offering remote work option during election week: survey

Business strategy

Norchmarn

Regardless of the outcome of the US presidential elections, 70% of managers in the United States are concerned that political tensions and conflicts in the workplace will escalate after the polls, according to a new survey.

The survey, released by Resume Builder, surveyed 1,000 managers in the United States to determine the impact of election results in the workplace.

Most managers (66%) believe that political tension and conflict will escalate regardless of the election outcome, according to the findings.

Voters in the United States flock to polling stations on Nov. 5 to choose between Democratic Vice-President Kamala Harris and Republican Donald Trump in a tight race for the presidency.

To avoid potential conflicts, 36% of managers in the US indicated that they would implement a remote work policy during election week. Their other reasons for it include:

• Provide flexibility for voting (79%) 
• Reducing workplace stress and tension (47%) 
• Avoiding conflicts between employees with differing political views (34%) 
• Ensuring safety from potential external unrest (34%) 
• Boosting employee morale (39%) 

Stacie Haller, chief career advisor from Resume Builder, underscored the need for HR teams to plan how they will respond to the outcome of the US presidential elections.

"Setting expectations and establishing guidelines for appropriate workplace conduct is more important than ever, as organisations navigate this highly charged period. Planning now will be essential to supporting a respectful, cohesive workplace," Haller said in a statement.

Political tensions at work

These findings come as the lead-in to the US presidential elections has caused conflicts at 27% of workplaces.

These conflicts at work because of politics have impacted morale and productivity, according to 38% of the respondents.

It has also resulted in organisations banning political discussions in the workplace (27%), as well as prohibiting politically affiliated posters (32%).

These election-related issues have also led to employees requesting to work remotely (17%) and facing disciplinary action (14%).

Four per cent of managers said employees were fired, while three per cent said employees resigned as a result of election-related issues.

"Employees need reassurance that their diverse perspectives will be respected. HR has the challenging responsibility of managing political tensions, ensuring respect, and fostering a workplace where all team members feel valued. There is a need for workplaces to maintain a neutral environment," Haller said.