By Megan Noel, Global President, Corporate Affairs

Reinforcing messages of unity, respect and a culture of care are critical.

The result of the US election is a historic moment for business and society. For communicators who may be considering a post-election communication, they should be prepared for heighted emotions and varied reactions to the outcome. For post-election communication, communicators should consider reinforcing five things:

1. The importance of civic engagement and respect for the democratic process—this will be critical, especially as the country looks to facilitate a peaceful transfer of power.

2. Commitment to its purpose and values that guide its behaviors and actions, such as integrity, respect, care, and inclusivity.

3. Support for employees, customers and communities regardless of political affiliation or stance—and the permission to not engage in political discussion, especially during the immediate days following the election.

4. Underscoring key benefits the company has in place to support mental and physical well-being, including access to resources and tools as well as inclusion networks/ERGs gatherings.

5. Reinforcing safety and security measures that it has in place in office locations that may be close to polling locations, demonstration sites or key campaign HQs. This will be important should demonstrations or protests break out.

Lastly, communicators should continuously monitor conversations and dialogues that may impact their companies and brands and use that information to correct, adjust or inform key audiences, as needed.

This was an excerpt of a piece originally published by Justin Joffe for Ragan.