By Katie Davis A s November nears and we get closer to Election Day in the U.S. most people have their personal opinions about political leaders’ social and policy stances. People can be very passionate about their beliefs and when the election discussion comes up in the workplace, on either side of the boarder, it can sometimes lead to heated discus- sions and possibly altercations among co-workers. Being in the media it does not take too long for these dis- cussions to take a life of their own in our Editorial meeting. Research in this recent study from the American Psycho- logical Association shows that political discussions around the office is causing increased stress on employees, making them more argumentative and less productive. In Canada, we just went through a somewhat difficult election process where people were and still are very pas- sionate about their views and we have always promoted open communication but there are many ways political views and passion can have a positive effect at the work- place and actually can lead to a stronger company culture. Trust us, we understand that many business and employees are feeling the stress about theNovember elections andwhat the outcome will mean to the business and to their jobs. This is being felt on both sides of the boarder as the U.S. election can have a significant impact of the Canadian economy. It is important to understand that these pressures are there and not to dismiss the tensions that may come from political discussions at work. It is best to be pro- active and set guidelines and boundaries to avoid any issues that may arise from election-related conversations. These guidelines and boundaries should show that your company supports employees’ rights to express them- selves, but also should set out clear policies outlining how to do so professionally respecting the views and beliefs of all in the workplace.
It is recommended that the guidelines on what is appropri- ate and inappropriate political behavior be communicated to all employees and posted in all areas that this conversation take place such as board and break rooms plus the company’s intranet and an email communication sent to all employees. This communication should also speak to conversations outside the workplace that can have an impact on the business and the employees. With today’s social media it is easy to get caught up in online conversations pertaining to the election; not only are you able to say what you feel, but you’re able to connect with those who feel similarly. However, things don’t always go to plan when dealing with the internet and what you say can be published without your permission so remember that when you can become involved in a heated argument over your political views or any views for that matter online as this could lead to trouble for you or your employer. Although we talk about discussion around the upcoming elections this communication should address all and be directed to all conversation not just political ones. Great businesses encourage open and honest com- munication, where you should be able to communicate your opinions openly, but remember the impact that they have on the business or are they relevant to the business environment and also remember that while you are entitled to have your own opinions on events that effect you, that you are also entitled to keep them to yourself. So think of that the next time you get involved in a heated conversation no matter how strongly you believe in what you are debating, you most likely are not going to change your co-workers’ opinions, which is okay to agree to disagree, but it is also okay to stay out of the conversation entirely.
48
SPOTLIGHT ON BUSINESS • OCTOBER 2016
Made with FlippingBook - Online Brochure Maker