National elections have long been known to bring about a range of emotions. The intense flurry of political activity, the fervor of campaigns, and the anticipation of results are all part of a process that can be equally exciting and anxiety-inducing. Employers and employees alike can find these occasions impactful and, often, challenging.
It’s essential for leaders to recognize and address the emotional toll elections may bring about and to foster an environment that encourages participation in the electoral process and caters to the wellbeing of team members during these potentially overwhelming periods.
Offering resources for employees to navigate these events, while staying neutral regarding political affiliations, plays a vital part in maintaining a healthy work environment. This presents an opportunity for employers to share resources in the context of mental health and wellbeing to ensure employees know where to turn for support.
Here is our guidance on making sure your approach is inclusive and reaches all employees regardless of politics.
Give people explicit permission to take part in the election. Review your time off policy for voting and be sure to communicate it to employees. If your current policy is too restrictive, consider revising it to make it easier for employees to vote. This will help prevent any apprehension on the part of team members.
Avoid scheduling critical meetings and deadlines on, and the day after, election day . This helps employees avoid feeling guilty for taking part in the election or for taking some time off for self-care. It also sends the message to employees that everyone is in this together.
Give employees the space to talk about their anxiety. Managers are in a unique position to normalize conversations around the upcoming election. By acknowledging that the political climate may make it hard to focus or stay positive, they are communicating to employees that they’re not alone.
Communicate the mental wellbeing resources available to employees — and communicate again! This is a time when over-communication is a good thing. Regularly remind employees about the resources they have available to them for support during this time and how to access those benefits. Leverage various channels such as internal messaging apps, all-hands meetings, and manager training.
Get Help From Sequoia
To learn about how Sequoia can partner with you to support employee mental health and wellbeing, reach out to a member of our team.
Disclaimer: This content is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, medical or tax advice. It provides general information and is not intended to encompass all compliance and legal obligations that may be applicable. This information and any questions as to your specific circumstances should be reviewed with your respective legal counsel and/or tax advisor as we do not provide legal or tax advice. © 2024 Sequoia Benefits & Insurance Services, LLC. All Rights Reserved
