LEADERSHIP
On Civility and Productivity
How to handle political discourse in the workplace
BY Josh Smith
SHUTTERSTOCK ILLUSTRATION
The current era is marked by hyperpoliticization and seemingly endless cultural wars , and it is likely that a business will have employees who fall on opposite sides of those issues . While the outcome of any given current event may elate some , it will undoubtedly alienate others . Keeping those issues out of the workplace may prevent strife within the workforce . This can be tricky territory , because something as simple as being outspoken politically or sharing a commentary piece may trigger discomfort for colleagues .
Businesses are navigating a difficult time , rife with stressors that include political , social , economic and personal issues that can impact employee performance . Business leaders should ensure their companies have proactive policies , plans and strategies to mitigate issues and preserve morale , professionalism and output .
Here are ways employers can mitigate or diffuse potential conflicts in the workplace .
Develop clear policies
The first step in ensuring that politics and contentious cultural matters stay out of the workplace is to create policies that delineate what is acceptable with what is not . Expectations should address topics , content and workspaces , both physical and virtual . Something
20 comstocksmag . com | August 2021