Creating a Positive Work Environment Amidst Political Intensity

The trajectory of history has shifted in the past 48 hours as US President Joe Biden declined to accept the Democratic Party’s nomination for re-election in 2024, and Vice President Kamala Harris has enough endorsements from his pledged delegates to become the party’s presumptive nominee – which is the first major party nomination for a woman of color in US history. And, little more than a week ago, the nation was collectively stunned and horrified by the assassination attempt on former President and presumptive nominee for the Republican party, Donald Trump.

Like many, I’ve found myself drawn to breaking news and social media to be among the first to hear the hot takes. And, one of the posts I saw broke my soul – the author said, “We’re about to see the very worst of people.”

With the Presidential election just a little over 100 days away and the landscape shifting rapidly, the current political climate is very divisive. This has enormous implications on the workplace, with workers experiencing higher stress and anxiety, impacts on personal productivity, morale, team dynamics and – at its worst – escalated conflicts between team members that have deeply held and polarized beliefs.

• According to the American Psychological Association, 62% of Americans report that the political climate is a significant source of stress.
• As of April 2024, a study by the Pew Research Center found that 62% of adults felt worn out by the amount of 2024 presidential campaign coverage.

As leaders and talent development practitioners, our role is key in fostering a supportive and inclusive environment that helps everyone feel more stable and valued, reducing stress and fostering better teamwork and productivity. By addressing these issues proactively and focusing on creating a positive atmosphere, we can help each other stay strong and connected despite the political turbulence outside.

Here are a few actionable strategies for fostering a positive and inclusive workplace during intense political and news cycles.

By implementing these strategies, team leaders can create a positive and supportive work environment that helps employees navigate the challenges of political turbulence with resilience and unity.