Voting, the Workplace, & You

Voting season is here and Election Day is just around the corner. You likely already feel the energy shifting, or have been receiving numerous campaign texts on your phone. There are significant issues on the ballot this year, and the results will determine our nation’s political climate for the next four years. The weight of this race falls on the shoulders of every eligible voter in America, and as we get closer to November 5th the tension is gradually rising. We cannot afford to let that tension freeze us. We must keep our political muscles warm, we must continue to engage and listen to understand, we must make a plan to vote. 

Historically, it’s been the professional etiquette to remove political engagement from the workplace. Whether that standard came from a place of wanting to avoid division among colleagues, distraction from work, or maintaining professionalism, we must understand that this does more harm than good. Our coworkers, colleagues, contractors, vendors, suppliers, and leaders are people, and they are affected by the election. How can this be balanced? How should workplace leadership manage political engagement sensitively, professionally, and responsibly? We have some ideas.

1. Don’t squash the conversation

We need to recognize that discussion around the political climate is a natural and healthy part of being an engaged and informed citizen. Let this exist within your workplace as topics arise. Some people may not feel comfortable engaging, and that’s okay. For those who do want to share and listen, it’s important to provide a space where it’s safe to express those thoughts and intentions. Even if individuals on your team aren’t interested in sharing their specific views, leading up to the election leadership should communicate the importance and duty of voting. Don’t squash political conversation––foster it!

2. Keep your Code of Ethics handy

We always hope as leaders that the team we’ve assembled will be civil and respectful of other members. Sometimes, even the best of us can become triggered by certain issues and ultimately cross workplace boundaries. It’s important to have an established Code of Ethics in your employee handbook and keep it handy. Remind team members during discussions that it’s the company policy to remain respectful, inclusive, and professional. Discussion should be encouraged, but hostility or disrespect in any form should never be tolerated.

3. Encourage voting

People are inspired and incentivised in a variety of ways depending on who they are. It’s crucial that workplace leaders are encouraging their team to vote, both in local and national elections. Here are some ideas to get your team engaged:

• Talk about it! Regardless of if your team is discussing political topics, verbally remind them that Election Day is coming up. Ask people their voting plan, and share your own. 
• Share resources. Many people don’t know about early voting, mail in ballots, how to find their polling station, or if they are registered to vote. People who aren’t in the know often feel uncomfortable speaking up and asking questions, or are overwhelmed with where to start. Compile a list of key resources and distribute them via a newsletter, Slack channel, social media, or on your company’s online resource hub. Make the resources simple, accessible, and clear. 
• Offer voting rewards. Choose a reward that makes sense for your team, and offer the prize to anyone who can show their “I Voted” sticker. Maybe the company purchases coffee or lunch for anyone who participates, or maybe voters get a certain number of PTO hours back. Whatever the prize, and however you choose to organize it, this way of incentivising brings some fun and reward to a serious civic duty. 
• Set an example. Sometimes the best way to persuade others or ignite action is to simply walk your talk. Share your own voting plan with your team. Display your voting sticker or a photo from outside your polling place. If you live near team members, offer them a ride or walking buddy to the polling station. Lead by example and show your team just how important it is to use your voice. 

4. Clear the calendar

One of the most pragmatic ways leaders can support their team on Election Day is by making time during the workday to vote. This means clearing the team calendar of internal meetings, client calls, and important deadlines for a whole or partial day. It doesn’t mean that the office is closed, it just gives your employees reassurance that they won’t be missing big presentations or important meetings if they need to use the time to get to their polling place. This shows your team that voting is a priority to be protected.

There are many ways to balance professionalism and political engagement in the workplace. Learn to break molds and challenge old standards and stigmas. As our country grows and evolves, voter engagement becomes increasingly important. As workplace leaders, we hold much power and influence over our team, and we need to use that for good. Encourage your team to use their voices, support them logistically, and don’t let the fire die out. The future is in our hands.