Elections bring a whirlwind of emotions, and these feelings often spill over into the workplace.
Employees may feel everything from relief and satisfaction to stress and uncertainty, depending on the outcome. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), nearly 52% of Americans say election outcomes are a significant source of stress in their lives. When emotions are high, it’s essential for leadership to step in, not only to acknowledge these feelings but to create a stable, inclusive environment where everyone feels respected. Here’s how a strong internal communications strategy can play a role in supporting employees' post-election.
Why Acknowledging the Moment Matters
Ignoring the election’s impact can make employees feel dismissed or unvalued. Addressing it head-on, however, shows that you recognize the significance of this event in their lives. A study by Gallup found that employee engagement rises by 23% when leaders address workplace issues with empathy and transparency. When leaders acknowledge the moment in a neutral way, it builds trust and reinforces the company’s commitment to employee wellbeing.
Taking a neutral approach means recognizing that elections can affect employees personally without aligning the company with any viewpoint. This approach validates the varied experiences within the team and demonstrates respect for all perspectives.
Encouraging Respectful Dialogue
Encouraging open conversations helps employees feel heard and valued, but it’s important to set up respectful communication channels. Consider organizing moderated Q&A sessions or virtual “town hall” meetings where employees can share their thoughts in a controlled, supportive environment.
Anonymous feedback channels, where employees can safely voice their concerns, can also be beneficial. In fact, companies that encourage employee feedback see 14.9% lower turnover rates, according to a study by Officevibe. Establish clear guidelines on respectful communication to prevent conflicts, reminding employees that maintaining harmony and respect for one another’s views is a top priority.
Reaffirming Company Values
During sensitive times, it’s crucial to remind employees of the company’s core values, such as inclusivity, respect, and teamwork. These values serve as a guiding light, showing employees that no matter the external events, the company remains a space of support and unity.
Surveys show that 89% of workers say a strong workplace culture is essential for their job satisfaction, according to a report by Deloitte. Send out a message from the CEO or include reminders in newsletters to reinforce these values. Regular team meetings can also be a good space to discuss how these principles are applied daily, helping to promote a sense of shared purpose. Reaffirming values in this way can create unity, especially when external events feel divisive.
Highlighting Mental Health and Wellness Resources
Emotions run high post-election, and some employees may feel more affected than others. Make sure that employees know about available mental health resources, such as Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), mental health days, or wellness initiatives designed to support their wellbeing.
In 2022, the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) reported that 86% of workers indicated workplace mental health resources are essential to maintaining productivity and morale. Encourage a supportive environment where employees feel comfortable using these resources. Emphasize that taking care of mental health is not only acceptable but encouraged, especially when dealing with heightened emotions due to recent events.
Shifting Focus to Shared Goals
Helping employees refocus on shared goals and company objectives can restore a sense of normalcy and unity. Internal communications can be pivotal in inspiring employees to focus on collective achievements and plans.
Organize team-building activities or “focus days” that bring everyone together toward a common purpose. These initiatives serve as gentle reminders that while personal beliefs and experiences vary, everyone in the organization shares a commitment to the company’s success. According to a report by TeamBonding, team-building activities can increase productivity by up to 25% when regularly incorporated into a company’s culture.
Sparrow Connected: A Trusted Partner in Internal Communications
When navigating the complex emotions and dynamics in the workplace after an election, clear and empathetic communication is essential. Sparrow Connected equips organizations with the tools they need to create a supportive, unified environment during challenging times. Our platform empowers leaders to maintain a stable and inclusive workplace. Here’s how Sparrow Connected makes a difference:
- Targeted Messaging allows leaders to acknowledge events neutrally, reaching specific groups with tailored messages that build trust without taking sides.
- Real-Time Feedback Channels provide employees with safe spaces for expressing concerns, like anonymous feedback options and moderated Q&A sessions. This fosters open, respectful dialogue across teams.
- Values Reinforcement Tools empower organizations to easily share reminders of core values through CEO announcements, newsletters, and team updates, reinforcing unity and respect.
- Integrated Mobile-First Wellness Resources: With Mobile App Access to Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) and mental health resources, employees can access vital support tools anytime. This mobile-first approach underscores a culture that prioritizes mental health and wellness by making resources easily accessible, even for remote teams.
- Collaborative Spaces with Knowledge Hubs: Sparrow Connected’s Knowledge Management Hub allows teams to share information, insights, and best practices efficiently, fostering collaboration and supporting collective goals. Employees can access the knowledge they need to refocus on shared objectives and continue moving forward together.
Sparrow Connected is designed to provide organizations with the agility and insight they need to nurture a resilient, aligned workforce. Our features make it easy to support employees meaningfully, especially when navigating sensitive moments.
Nurturing Post-Election Supportive Environment:
Internal communications play a vital role in maintaining an inclusive, supportive environment post-election. By focusing on empathy, neutrality, and alignment with company values, leaders can create a workplace where employees feel respected and understood. Keep the conversation going and check in with employees as they adjust to this period of change. If you want to explore more about internal communications strategies tailored to post-election dynamics and beyond Book a Free Coaching Session today!
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