Houston expert: How leaders can manage divisive topics in the workplace to maintain a unified culture
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Social issues to economic pressures and personal challenges are all stressors businesses must face and navigate. When employees face these obstacles, they can impact their performance. Amid it all, business leaders must adopt proactive strategies to maintain morale, professionalism and productivity.
People bring divisive topics into the workplace. Everyone has a different opinion on today’s news and current events, which can excite some and alienate others. Below are key strategies that employers can implement to manage potential conflicts and foster a positive work environment.
Create clear policies
Tempering controversial topics and cultural discussions is done with clear policies that outline acceptable behaviors. These policies should cover physical and virtual workspaces, specifying topics and content that are appropriate for work. What may seem like neutral items, like photos or trinkets seen on a video call, can sometimes stir controversy if they carry controversial associations.
Policies need to clearly state what is considered controversial cultural discussions and what is acceptable to address in the office or post on social media. Exceptions may be needed for discussions protected under the National Labor Relations Act, such as employees discussing wages. Removing vagueness helps set clear expectations and avoid misunderstandings.
It’s critical for leadership to follow the policies they developed. By their own actions, leadership can show the importance of staying neutral and professional at work. This sets a standard others can follow, resulting in a more focused and cohesive workplace. Conversely, if leaders openly discuss hot topics, employees may feel encouraged to do the same, creating undue tension among team members.
Remember clients and customers
Clients and customers likely have different opinions than your business leaders. Avoiding divisive topics and discussions helps bolster good working relationships with clients and customers who most certainly have a wide range of cultural views.
Everyone within the company, from the top down, should focus on the company's core mission. This laser focus will help maintain client relationships.
Strengthen mission and values
Most things today can become politicized, so it can be beneficial to take a close look at the company’s mission statement and values. It’s important to ensure these statements continue to reflect the company’s commitment to positive contributions for the broader community, clients, and employees. No matter the size of the company, the mission and values should provide a unifying purpose that can help buffer the workplace from tensions.
In today’s complex cultural landscape, it is important to create a culture of respect, neutrality, and complete focus on the company’s mission.
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Jill Chapman is a director of early talent programs with Insperity, a leading provider of human resources and business performance solutions.
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