As the U.S. presidential election approaches, workplace tensions over political differences have risen sharply. A survey by ResumeBuilder, which polled over 1,000 managers, found that 40% plan to have their employees work remotely during election week.
This move comes in response to increased political conflicts among staff, with 30% of managers reporting that the election has led to disputes and 70% expressing concerns that these tensions will escalate after the election. The rise in workplace incivility has made it harder for teams to function cohesively.
Managers are facing difficulties in maintaining harmony at work, as political disagreements have led to strained relationships and verbal altercations. These conflicts are not just disruptive; they also diminish overall productivity.
Approximately 25% of employees have refused to work with colleagues holding opposing views, and many have asked to work from home to avoid potential confrontations. These shifts in workplace dynamics are indicative of the challenges businesses are experiencing during such a polarized time.
One company that is adjusting its operations in response is ASTRSK, a boutique agency in Manhattan. With 20 employees and a hybrid work schedule, ASTRSK has decided to close its office on Election Day and the following day, offering staff the flexibility to work from home.
U.S. Managers Respond to Election-Related Workplace Tensions by Implementing Remote Work Policies
While the company typically operates with employees in the office on Tuesdays and Thursdays, the uncertainty surrounding the election prompted them to prioritize employee well-being. The agency is uncertain whether employees will return to the office later in the week, given the tense political climate.
Lisa Horton, president of ASTRSK, explained that many of the agency’s staff members are millennials and Gen Zers, groups known for their strong engagement with social and political issues.
Horton recognized the unique emotional and psychological impact of this election, which she described as one of the most charged in modern history. To protect the mental health of her team, she emphasized the importance of allowing staff to be in spaces where they feel safe, whether that means being at home or with family and friends.
Although ASTRSK employees typically share similar views, creating a supportive environment for open expression, Horton remains committed to protecting everyone’s emotional space. The company’s approach to remote work during the election is an effort to alleviate stress and safeguard the mental well-being of staff.
While no employees at ASTRSK have felt unsafe at work, the agency’s proactive steps illustrate a growing trend among businesses trying to balance productivity with emotional support during an election marked by heightened division.
