Avoid Politically Charged Conversations in the Workplace

By R. Bruce Dalglish of Philadelphia, PA

With the 2016 presidential election causing controversy on an almost a daily basis, more and more politically charged conversations begin to spark in workplaces around the country. Oftentimes employees can’t help but share their opinions and discuss the latest news pertaining to candidates and their actions. This, in turn, can lead to heated debates over sensitive topics, which can create a negative work environment.

This, however, does not permit managers to simply forbid any conversations on such topics in the workplace. Different types of employee discussions are protected by the provisions of the National Labor Relations Act, and banning them may lead to undesirable consequences. Instead, managers should focus on the existing employee relations policies outlined by the organization. If a certain topic or opinion offends an employee, he or she can ask the co-workers to stop the discussion.

Having written policies and procedures of your organization is key to creating a positive work culture. Knowing these policies can allow managers to foster productive employee relations and avoid potential conflicts and miscommunication.

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About the Author

A resident of Philadelphia, R. Bruce Dalglish has served as the Chairman and CEO of Alliance Hospice and All Caring Hospice since 2005. In this role, Bruce Dalglish oversees the development and strategic direction of both companies. From 2008 – 2013, Bruce Dalglish served on the Public Policy Committee of the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO).