Cultivating a Thoughtful & Inclusive Culture During This Political Season

By Alwyn Dias, Crothers Consulting
The diversity of perspectives among individuals is what fosters deeper learning and personal growth. Engaging in healthy discussions about differing viewpoints not only enriches our understanding, but also enables us to present a unified front when addressing complex issues within our communities on things such as politics.  It's common for opposing parties to conflate the points of conflict with the character of the individuals involved. This tendency leads us to believe that our differences are reflections of personal character rather than the actual issues at hand. Currently, this seems to be particularly true with respect to support of the different presidential candidates.  We will suggest tips on navigating that within your organization.

I remember attending a family gathering shortly after the height of the pandemic, wearing a mask to protect my health, which is particularly vulnerable. At one point, I was asked if my choice to wear a mask was indicative of being a socialist. I wasn’t offended by the question; rather, I was taken aback that a simple health precaution could be tied to a socio-political identity. Conversely, does not wearing a mask imply a nationalist stance or, even worse, a supremacist ideology? 
As our country stands on the brink of significant change with the upcoming 2024 presidential election, political discussions are likely to intensify and potentially become harmful in the workplace. Opinions regarding the election are often deeply rooted in personal identity and family beliefs. While these conversations can be engaging, they are also delicate and require a mutual understanding of intentions. Banning political discussions at work won't eliminate them. Instead, it may push them into exclusive spaces, leading to diminished morale among employees. 
For leaders, this moment presents both an opportunity and a challenge. Cultivating open dialogue while maintaining an atmosphere of respect is crucial. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to discussing politics in the workplace, but managers can encourage constructive discussions about opposing views. 
1. Be The Model of Respect:
Your behavior as a leader sets the tone for workplace culture. Make it clear that differing views are welcome, but disrespectful language or personal attacks will not be tolerated. Help employees understand that the topics of conflict are not reflections of individual character. 
2. Promote Active Listening: 
Encourage your team to practice active listening by focusing on understanding the speaker's perspective before responding. This can involve summarizing what was said and asking clarifying questions. Active listening nurtures empathy and helps to mitigate misunderstandings. 
3. Demonstrate Openness: 
As a leader, show your willingness to engage with differing opinions, even if you disagree. Share your own views in a way that invites dialogue rather than shutting it down. Your openness can inspire employees to share their perspectives freely. Trust is key in organizations.
4. Equip Employees with Conflict Resolution Skills: 
Provide your team with tools for managing disagreements constructively. Consider hosting workshops or “Lunch & Learns” on conflict resolution techniques, such as identifying emotions, seeking compromise, and staying focused on solutions. These skills empower employees to handle disagreements with maturity and respect. 
5. Monitor Team Dynamics: 
Stay attuned to the dynamics within your team. If political discussions begin to escalate into tension or conflict, intervene early. Address issues directly and remind employees of the guidelines for respectful conversation, ensuring a positive work environment. 
Remind your team that while personal beliefs are significant, professionalism must always take precedence in the workplace. Encourage employees to separate personal views from work-related discussions, particularly in formal settings. This focus on professionalism is essential, especially in the months following the election. 
Organizing workshops on "Respect in the Workplace" or "Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion" can be a proactive approach to navigating these sensitive times. 
As the 2024 election season unfolds, political discussions will inevitably enter the workplace. As a manager, your role is to steer these conversations toward productive outcomes. By fostering an environment of respect, encouraging active listening, and emphasizing shared values, you can help your team navigate opposing views while maintaining a harmonious workplace. 
This pivotal moment in our nation’s history offers a unique opportunity to strengthen relationships and cultivate a culture of open dialogue --one where diverse perspectives lead to richer discussions and stronger connections. 
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