How to support employees during post-election uncertainty

The outcome of the presidential election has left many employees struggling to understand what this means for their future, their families, and their communities.?

They also have to carry this burden while showing up to work the next day.?

As a leader, you may find yourself in a tough position and unsure of how to have conversations with employees who are feeling anxious, uncertain, or even disconnected. Employees look to you for clarity about their work and for reassurance that their workplace is still a safe, supportive environment.?

To lead effectively, you must first understand your employees’ needs. This begins with listening and following up with actionable support.

Here’s how you can guide your team through this uncertain time with empathy, confidence, and clarity in the coming weeks.

Ask the right questions

The first step to supporting your team is understanding what they’re going through and what they need from you. While some employees may openly share their thoughts, others might be more hesitant and fear judgment.

To bridge this gap, leaders need to ask thoughtful questions to show employees their experiences and voices matter. Here are a few ways to gather feedback:

• Anonymous surveys: Ask employees about their concerns and what support they’d find helpful. Questions like “What would help you feel more supported during this time?” or “What specific challenges are you facing right now?” can start the conversation.?
• Open forums or listening sessions: Host voluntary group discussions where employees can share their thoughts in a structured, facilitated environment.
• One-on-one check-ins: Encourage managers to have personal conversations with their team members to better understand their individual needs.

Take action based on feedback?

Listening is essential, but it’s only the first step. Employees need to see their feedback leads to real change. Once you’ve gathered insights, your leadership team should review the recurring themes and prioritize actions that will have the most impact.

Here are some examples of actionable support you can provide in the immediate future:

• Mental health resources: Highlight which counseling options are available through EAPs or mental health platforms. Offer free or discounted wellness app subscriptions, or create an online hub with resources like hotlines and coping guides.?
• Support groups: Talk to your employee resource groups (ERGs) leaders to see what support or resources they need for their belonging communities. If your company doesn’t have an ERG, start talking about how you can build one in the new year.
• Facilitated discussions: Bring in external facilitators to guide conversations about the election’s impact and how employees can navigate potential changes in their lives and careers.?

Reinforce your commitment to inclusion and safety

Employees need reassurance that their workplace is somewhere they belong. Use this moment to reaffirm your organization’s commitment to equity, inclusion, and respect for all team members.

Here are some ways to communicate and reinforce your values:

• Publicly acknowledge leadership concerns: Share a company-wide message that acknowledges the challenges some employees may be facing and reaffirms your commitment to supporting them.
• Revisit your policies: Ensure your policies on anti-discrimination, mental health support, and workplace inclusion are up to date and easily accessible to all employees.
• Create meaningful touchpoints: Host a meeting or town hall to address how the organization will implement new or ongoing initiatives, such as launching a diversity council, introducing new training programs, or providing space for open dialogue. These touchpoints not only signal that leadership is paying attention but also create a platform for employees to feel actively involved in shaping the company’s culture.

Employees want to know that their leaders care about them as people and not just how they produce results. As you lead through this post-election period, remember: Uncertainty can be unsettling, but your leadership can provide some stability and comfort.?

Learn how to navigate tough conversations with your team during uncertain times?

Perfeqta’s in-person and virtual training sessions are designed to help leaders move from awareness to action. We provide participants with the resources they need to share their challenges, listen to feedback, and talk through actionable solutions.

???Learn more about how our company training sessions can help your team have transformative conversations in the workplace.

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??Download our Inclusive Leadership Guide and learn how to lead with empathy, practice allyship, and make decisions rooted in equity.