Political discussions in the workplace, what could possibly go wrong?
With a general election on the horizon, a recent survey* reveals a generational divide on whether political discussions should be taking place at work and reports that almost a fifth of workers have fallen out with colleagues because of opposing political beliefs**.
While political talk should not be banned from the workplace, having a policy or guidance to explain acceptable political activity in the workplace could help to prevent disruption. We appreciate that banter is commonplace in work environments to build work relations, but it can very quickly all go wrong, especially when election views and beliefs are heightened and emotions are intensified which can result in claims of harassment, bullying and discrimination.
A policy can be useful and set out clear rules so that everyone understands what is expected of them in the workplace and the consequences of unacceptable conduct.
You may also wish to consider saying something in the policy to avoid potential situations in the workplace, that could risk damaging relationships with employees, clients or suppliers:
political campaigning;
handing out written material, eg leaflets containing information about political parties;
sending political material/information to anyone via our email system or posting such material on the internet or intranet;
using company resources to assist with political activity, eg use of company equipment, printers, photocopiers or mobile phones to print, scan, copy or transmit political leaflets or messages;
expressing political views to customers or suppliers (whether done verbally, by email or in writing);
arguing with suppliers, customers or clients about any aspect of politics or current affairs;
attempting to coerce others into holding any particular political opinion or trying to persuade colleagues to engage in political activity;
wearing or displaying political symbols, eg badges or t-shirts with political slogans, which may cause offense;
putting notices that contain information about political parties or state political views on any of company noticeboards;
doing or saying anything that suggests or implies that your organisation supports a particular political group/party or holds any particular political opinion; or
acting against colleagues in a way that could amount to harassment or bullying, for example mocking a colleague's political opinions, exposing them to extreme political views or taking steps to try and foist political beliefs on them.
If you need help, guidance or a situation presents itself where you feel this issue has damaged employee, company, or customer relations, please contact us for assistance at info@sos-hr.co.uk or telephone 01473 276170.
*HiBob analytics
**LinkedIn poll by People Management