Dive Brief:
- With the GOP convention starting today and the Democrats soon to follow, it's no surprise that political "discussions" are emerging in the workplace, according to a new survey.
- The survey, from CareerBuilder, reports that 30% of employers (managers and higher) and 17% of employees have argued over their candidate of choice within the May-June timeframe.
- Not surprisingly, discussions about presumptive Republican nominee Donald Trump were the number one topic. All told, Harris Online surveyed more than 3,200 workers and 900 managers in the private sector across industries nationwide.
Dive Insight:
Because the CareerBuilder survey stopped on June 7, those numbers are sure to rise as the election draws closer, especially with the Conventions taking place between now and the end of July.
While HR can't really control what people say in the workplace (if it stays within the lines), they can offer workplace-wide reminders that if mini-debates break out, they should happen with civility. HR also should take the time to review and communicate any company policy issues related to elections, such as wearing buttons, shirts, etc.
It's also a good idea as part of any communication strategy to tell employees that if things get ugly, just walk away (or report abusive behavior, whether in person or via email/social media). On a positive note, employers are allowed to encourage that all employees exercise their right to vote come November.