Resetting Equilibrium: How to Keep Our Teams Focused After an Intense Election Season

In the wake of a gripping election, the anxiety of what lies ahead weighs heavily on our minds. The recent election may have ended, but its echoes resonate in our workplaces, homes, and communities.? Amidst potential and continued backlash against DEI from a new administration, DEI principles are vital for guiding leaders and teams in fostering psychological safety, mutual respect, and group cohesion. DEI isn’t specific to marginalized groups; its principles apply to everyone across races and age groups. Our world is diverse, as are our workplaces – thinking that DEI doesn’t benefit everyone simply isn’t the case.?

Post-election periods can be times of tension and unease. Whether a person supported a candidate based on policies, personalities, or visions for our country’s future, this election's heightened emotions and divisive discourse have seeped into our relationships, workplaces, and personal lives. Political differences can cause mental strain and impact team cohesion, creating an environment where morale wanes and productivity dips. But amidst this tension lies an opportunity—an opportunity to unite under a shared purpose and vision by focusing on the organization's work. I’ve guided organizations through this process numerous times. Below are a few strategies to help your organization maintain direction and momentum after the emotional rollercoaster of a highly charged political season.

1. Give it some time — This was a monumental election. It affected people differently; some were elated, and some were devastated.? We all need some time to re-orient ourselves. Leaders and their teams alike need time to return to the state of equilibrium that existed before the heightened emotions of the election. Expect that different people on your team will need to handle their emotions differently. Reach out to your team as a whole or individually. Offer a listening ear, space to be heard, and resources. While you won’t be expected to make things better, creating the space to voice concerns signals your interest in their well-being.

2. Don’t judge a book by its cover — Be mindful about making assumptions about who people voted for, why they voted a certain way, or their political philosophy. A good practice is to focus on suspending judgment when possible and cultivating a productive working relationship.

3. Foster an environment that promotes psychological safety -– A necessary element for team effectiveness is for employees to feel safe expressing their views and concerns without fear of retribution. In this contentious moment, however, discussions about politics during meetings are rarely productive and can even destroy team solidarity. Allow people to discuss the election and their political views in settings where all participants mutually agree on what they perceive as a safe environment.

4. Show empathy and respect — If a political issue surfaces in a team meeting, don’t ignore it; leaders can compassionately acknowledge the issue and remind everyone of the importance of respecting each other’s point of view. Extend empathy to those who are clearly struggling. Suggest that the conversation be paused or taken offline for those who want to continue engaging and even offer to facilitate discussions if needed.?

5. Focus on Shared Goals — Redirect attention from political divisions to shared workplace goals. Remind your team that while political beliefs might differ, you are united in your commitment to the organization’s success. Reinforce the idea that achieving common goals requires collaboration, trust, accountability, and collective effort.

6. Promote Team Building Activities — Organize activities that promote team cohesion and boost morale. Whether it’s a team-building retreat or a simple coffee break discussion, these activities can provide opportunities to connect on a personal level and remind colleagues of their many talents and interests. Strengthening interpersonal relationships fosters a supportive workplace culture where political differences take a back seat.

7. Reinforce Optimism — Encourage your team to focus and celebrate team achievements that align with shared values and aspirations, reinforcing the contributions that the team is making to the organization's overall mission and goals.?

Workplaces are microcosms of our larger society, with diverse individuals bringing varied perspectives and values to the table. This diversity is a strength, yet political differences can sometimes create barriers.??

While gaining the skills needed for having and/or guiding respectful conversations across political viewpoints takes time to develop, it is vital to have the skills in your toolbox, and there’s no time like the present. A cohesive team recognizes that differences in backgrounds and perspectives enrich the workplace. By finding common ground, we can harness these differences to fuel innovation and drive success. Our shared humanity and values become the foundation for building a future where everyone thrives.?