Today, Americans are heading to the polls for the 2020 general election. Election Day can be a rollercoaster of emotions, and we have to face them while at work. Read below for three ways to support your team today!
1. Be Flexible
On Election Day, offer flexible schedules to your team. Allow employees to leave during the day to vote, or to come in later in the day. Understand that many polling stations will experience lines, and a trip to vote may take a few hours. By removing strict work obligations, such as meetings or deadlines, your team will feel empowered to do their civic duty.
2. Set Guidelines
Make sure your team is aware of expectations around Election Day. Decide on rules surrounding workload, and adjust deadlines accordingly. Set boundaries for watercooler conversations to ensure everyone feels comfortable and respected. Ensuring that your team is on the same page when it comes to political conversations will help prevent unnecessary friction.
The election doesn’t end at midnight. Coverage will go into the wee hours of the morning and there will be continual chatter in the days to come. Reschedule Wednesday morning meetings so that the team has time to get a few more zzzs and decompress after following the news all night.