How Senior Leaders Can Support Employee Wellbeing During Election Season
As we approach another contentious election season in the United States, the effects of a wildly polarized political climate will inevitably spill into the workplace. For senior business leaders, preparing teams for the emotional and mental challenges ahead is a necessity. Regardless of the election’s outcome, how leadership manages the heightened stress, distractions, and emotional reactions during this period will play a crucial role in maintaining productivity, engagement, and employee wellbeing.
Almost 7 in 10 Americans confess to feeling “exhausted” by the political system and more than 1 in 2 feel “angry.” As the countdown toward the presidential election intensifies, this lingering emotional fatigue is likely to increase too. For businesses, a distracted and stressed workforce can quickly become a productivity issue.
Not surprisingly, being distracted is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to risks. “Even casual political conversations at work can lead to divisiveness, erode team cohesion, and compromise workplace culture,” explains Dr. Kennette Thigpen Harris, Chief Clinical Officer at Workplace Options. “With the blend of personal and professional lives more pronounced than ever—especially in a post-pandemic hybrid working world—managing how political discourse unfolds within your organization becomes critical.”
If left unchecked, these divisive conversations can create feelings of exclusion or marginalization, which in turn affects employee morale, team dynamics, and ultimately, retention. So, how can executives and their teams proactively manage these challenges and foster a supportive, productive environment?
Here are four key strategies to consider as we navigate the upcoming election:
Prepare Messaging and Communication
Leaders should begin by crafting clear, transparent messaging to address potential election-related distractions and stressors. “Acknowledge the upcoming election, the likelihood of emotional reactions, and commit to maintaining a safe and inclusive workplace,” says Oliver Brecht, Vice President & General Manager, Enterprise Solutions at Workplace Options. “Transparency and authenticity in leadership communication will help employees feel that their concerns are understood and that their wellbeing is a priority.”
Equally important, align this communication with your company’s core values. Avoid taking sides, but emphasize the importance of respect, inclusion, and collaboration across political differences. This can create a psychologically safe environment where employees feel comfortable voicing concerns without fear of backlash.
Set Guidelines for Civil, Respectful Conversations
No one can monitor every political conversation, but leadership can establish clear expectations for constructive, respectful dialogue. Encourage employees to practice empathy and listen actively to different perspectives. This is the foundation of psychological safety and essential when discussing potentially divisive topics.
Remind your teams that while they may hold diverse opinions, they all share the common goal of working together to drive business success. Additionally, offer guidance on how employees can disengage from political conversations or seek support if they feel uncomfortable or marginalized.
Support Employees Post-Election
Regardless of the election outcome, leaders should anticipate varying emotional responses and prepare to provide post-election support. Acknowledge that the results may evoke strong emotions, and remind employees about available mental health resources, including the company’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Some team members may require time or space to process the election’s impact, so offer flexibility when possible.
As a leader, it is also important to recognize your own need for support. If you find yourself struggling with these issues, engage with peers or counselors to ensure you are equipped to handle the organization’s emotional climate.
Prioritize Psychological Safety and Inclusion
Above all, fostering a culture of psychological safety during election season is crucial. When employees feel safe to express their concerns and emotions in a non-judgmental space, they are more likely to stay engaged and productive. As leaders, demonstrate empathy, transparency, and respect—values that transcend political divisions. Create opportunities for dialogue, reinforce the importance of mutual respect, and ensure that every employee knows they belong, regardless of their political views.
Election seasons are inherently disruptive, but they also present an opportunity for senior leaders to reaffirm their commitment to employee wellbeing, inclusivity, and engagement. By proactively preparing messaging, setting clear guidelines, and offering emotional support, you can ensure that your workforce remains productive, motivated, and cohesive—no matter what political turbulence lies ahead.
For additional resources on inclusive leadership, psychological safety, and more, visit the TDM Library or contact us at Workplace Options to learn about AIR25—a new training program offering managers the skills, strategies, and insights needed to create inclusive environments free from unconscious biases, interpersonal conflicts, and other barriers that undermine diversity efforts and psychological safety in the workplace.
