Facing workplace incivility in this political climate? You’re not alone.
Mackenzie Waldron is a writer focused on ensuring workers have the information and resources they need to thrive. She explores topics that come up on Empower Work’s free, confidential text line and brings research-backed approaches to support you.
For many Americans, going to work after the 2024 election and moving forward into a new administration can feel challenging. Feeling the political and social tension can be difficult, and may even feel impossible at times. Some employers may be talking about it while others are not. Some coworkers may have strong perspectives that are different from yours that feel isolating.
If you’re feeling a sense of dread at work following the election and moving forward into a new administration, know that this is a normal reaction. Workplaces can become increasingly intense during politically charged times. According to The Society of Human Resources, workplace incivility spiked by 27% from Q2 to Q3 of 2024, reflecting rising tensions in the workplace ahead of the election.
Why is civility in the workplace important?
Workplace civility is important because it creates a safe, healthy, and empathetic environment where individuals can contribute their best ideas, knowing they’ll be heard and valued. It’s more than making your coworkers feel comfortable—it’s about creating a dynamic, diverse, and productive workplace where everyone can thrive.
According to SHRM, 58% of U.S. workers believe our society is uncivil, with U.S. workers collectively experiencing 190 million acts of incivility per day. Their research shows that politics is now a top driver of incivility at work with 78% of U.S. workers facing poor treatment at work because of their political views and 61% of employees reporting that they experience stress and frustration when political discussions occur between themselves and people they disagree with.
What does workplace incivility look like?
Workplace incivility is common. It occurs when an employee or manager is disrespectful or rude to others. It can show up in many different cases at work, and can escalate during socially or politically tense times.
A few examples of workplace incivility:
Raising tempers or yelling at coworkers
Being disrespectful to employees
Ignoring a coworker when they’re speaking
Passive aggressive behaviors
Sabotaging a coworker’s project
Purposely failing to pay attention during meetings
Trying to ruin a coworker’s reputation or gossiping
Keeping important information from coworkers
These acts of incivility can have a ripple effect in your work life and personal life:
Decreased job satisfaction
Lower productivity
Poor mental health including stress, burnout, and anxiety
Lack of trust in colleagues, your manager, or the organization
A negative impact on your health
How to address workplace incivility
If you’re experiencing incivility in your workplace during a politically-tense time, you’re not alone. There are many resources and tactics for employers to use to create an empathetic and civil workplace. If you’re an employee facing these challenges, here are a few approaches you can take to alleviate some of the stress or frustration you may be experiencing:
1. Speak up for yourself and other employees
Political conversations at work can be hard to navigate, especially if they become heated or divisive. If you witness or experience incivility, don’t be afraid to address it constructively and professionally. If a coworker’s comment or behavior makes you uncomfortable, you can approach them privately and let them know how it impacted you. Use “I” statements to avoid sounding accusatory. For example: “I felt disrespected when my suggestion was dismissed in the meeting. I would appreciate it if we could all take a moment to hear each other out.” If you don’t feel comfortable speaking out, there are other routes available as well, like speaking with a counselor or an HR representative.
2. Model respectful communication
As political tensions rise, it’s easy to fall into a pattern of negative or dismissive communication. Most of us learn the phrase “treat others the way you want to be treated” early on in life, and it’s just as important to follow in the workplace. You can set a powerful example by modeling respectful communication. Practice active listening, ask clarifying questions, and avoid jumping to conclusions. By demonstrating civility in your interactions, you set a positive example for others, even if they’re not actively engaging in the conversation.
3. Set boundaries
If political conversations are affecting your well-being or productivity, it’s okay to set boundaries. Politely let others know that you prefer not to engage in political discussions during work hours, or that you’d rather keep the conversation focused on work-related topics.
4. Practice self-care
Political tensions can be draining, especially if you’re caught in the crossfire of divisive discussions. Take time to check in with yourself and take breaks when needed. If the stress from workplace incivility is affecting your well-being, it’s okay to seek support from a counselor, HR, or a trusted colleague. Prioritize your mental health so that you can navigate these challenging times in a constructive way.
5. Reach out for support
With political tensions on the rise, it’s easy to feel isolated and helpless. There's a lot of uncertainty about the future—and at work. It is completely normal to have feelings of loneliness, uncertainty, stress or anxiety, frustration, and burnout. Chances are, you’re not the only one experiencing these challenges at your workplace. Reach out to a trusted colleague, friend, or family member at this time. If you’re experiencing incivility in the workplace and are seeking help in finding your next steps, text 510-674-1414 or start a web chat for free, confidential support from an Empower Work peer counselor.
The road ahead for civility at work
Civility in the workplace is an ongoing process that evolves with the culture and dynamics of an organization as well as the state of the world around it—including the political landscape. The way people engage with one another—whether through respect, empathy, or, at times, frustration—will naturally fluctuate. There will be periods when civility is at the forefront, as colleagues collaborate smoothly and conflicts are resolved with understanding. But there will also be times when tensions rise, whether due to heated political debates, high pressure, or miscommunication, and incivility may surface. The key to maintaining a respectful environment is being prepared to navigate these fluctuations with a commitment to address issues swiftly and thoughtfully. A workplace culture that recognizes the ebb and flow of these interactions will be better equipped to promote long-term, healthy workplaces.
*Note: Empower Work provides non-legal support for workplace challenges. This information, while authoritative, is not legal advice or guaranteed for legality. Employment laws and regulations vary by state. We recommend consulting with state resources for specific interpretation and decisions. If you believe you were discriminated against in violation of the law, we recommend you seek legal advice.