11/04/2024

Strategy

Why We Give the Niftic Team a Paid Day Off to Vote: A Q&A

Why We Give the Niftic Team a Paid Day Off to Vote: A Q&A

Q: Why does Niftic give a paid day off for Election Day?

At Niftic, we believe in empowering our team to make a difference, both at work and in the world. Providing paid time off to vote is one way we help them do that. In a busy work culture, voting can feel like one more thing to fit in. By giving our team the day, we’re making it easy for everyone to engage fully, without worrying about how to balance work and civic duties.

Q: Isn’t it easier now with mail-in ballots? Why take a full day off?

True, mail-in voting offers more flexibility, but this day off is about more than just casting a ballot. We’re inviting our team to use the time to contribute in other ways, whether that’s by volunteering as a poll worker, helping friends and family make informed voting decisions, or getting involved in local advocacy.

Q: What’s the impact of a full day versus a few hours?

Consider that 28 states require employers to provide voting leave (with specifics varying widely), but even with those policies, only about 27% of employees use this time off. So while some states require employers to give time off to vote, a few hours might not always be enough—especially for people juggling caregiving, long commutes, or high-stakes deadlines. By offering a full day, we’re removing any barriers or time pressures that could prevent our team from voting.

Q: Any advice for companies considering a similar policy?

Absolutely! Consider this an investment in both your team and the larger community. Beyond just offering a few hours, think about the message you’re sending and the benefits a full day provides. Giving your team the freedom and respect to vote and engage reinforces the idea that their voices matter in more ways than one.

A Few Final Thoughts…

At Niftic, our goal isn’t just to create top-notch projects—it’s to build leaders, engaged citizens, and community-minded team members. When employers make voting a priority by giving a full day, it sends a message: democracy and civic participation matter. And for Niftic, that’s a message we’re proud to stand behind.