It is not over yet. This year has been a struggle for so many with Covid-19, #BLM, dealing with new norms and new ways of living, unemployment and so much more. However, we have yet another major obstacle to overcome and that is the elections in the United States. So what do elections have to do with you, your team and leadership? A lot!

Today, more than ever before, people are feeling the affects and effects of what is happening as a result of the pandemic. People are on edge. Employees are struggling with juggling new ways of doing business, non-stop Zoom meetings, working in new home environments, educating children, work/life balance and of course, the non-stop messaging about our US elections.

According to a new Gallup Poll 62% of American workers are NOT engaged in their roles. This is an all time high. With people working remotely, employees are feeling the burdens of new work environments, not feeling connected to leadership and teams as well as feeling like a shipwrecked person on a lonely remote island. Workers are craving connection like never before.

With the elections so close, the results will be coming in. While stress levels are already at peak levels, for many, election results will be a trigger. We do not know how our country will react with either decision. What we do know is that leaders need to anticipate team member reactions. Following are some suggestions for leaders to consider starting now:

CREATE A SAFE SPACE

It is appreciated and recommended that employers tell their employees to vote. However, people need to know that their work environment is a safe space. There is a difference between anger and rage. As a leader and with your leadership team, what protocols might be needed to create healthy workspaces? While we discuss the importance of diversity in the workplace, how can we honor various employee viewpoints and values? Where can we find (and remind employees about) the similarities instead of differences? While politics may not be discussed at group level, how will you and leadership team members create safe virtual spaces for each team member as needed.

STAY OBJECTIVE. LISTEN MORE. TALK LESS.

Not everyone loves Trump. Not everyone loves Biden. As a leader, your role is your business. Will the election results have an impact on your business? Probably yes. However, when it comes to your team, everyone may not share your or other peoples exact ideals and values. Remember that everyone is allowed an opinion. We live in stressful times where new political battlefields have been drawn. When possible, try to keep political conversations to a minimum. As a leader, while it may be difficult, try to honor people and their choices. Be mindful of the business and the contributions that each person brings to your organization.

CHECK IN…OFTEN

There is no doubt people may be upset, anxious, resentful or sad. When we take into consideration Emotional Intelligence, this election will have an impact. While staying in objectivity, when possible, do check in often with your team to see how they are doing. People want to be heard, especially now.

According to Forbes and a SHRM survey of 1,005 American workers found one-third are worried about how the election’s outcome will impact their places of employment, which is a reason leaders need to reassure team members that they’ll be cared for and safe in their work environment.

It is safe to assume that there is a possibility that results may take time before a final decision is made. Now is the time to plan and set ground rules about how your organization will show up regarding the election and how you will care for your team members during yet another high stress situation which will have a major impact on many peoples lives.

Eli Blair is an executive business coach and leadership training professional