No other event in recent history has brought about such an outpouring of powerful, opposing opinions as the 2016 Presidential Election. There is a frantic spewing of self serving attacks from both sides of the ticket. Passionate, political candidate supporters and condemners are more vocal than ever before. Scroll through social media feeds and you encounter post after post representing some of the worst political behaviors and communications we have seen in United States history.
We are blessed to live in a country that allows us to speak freely, however, we seem to have forgotten basic kindness, manners, and the appropriate behaviors of a civilized society. Don't allow the political climate to bring out the worst in you. In the words of Michelle Obama, "When they go low, we go high."
Etiquette is all about how we make others feel in our presence; it's about behaving as expected in a given situation and using appropriate language so that others are comfortable. As a reminder to us all, here is a list of the Top 3 Political Etiquette Rules for 2016.
- Express your positive opinion for your candidate of choice. To influence others, site examples that support what you like about your candidate. The rules of influence and sales are closely related, so if you want to 'sell' your candidate to others, share the benefits and value your candidate brings to the Office. There is no need to slam who you oppose. Remember what you learned in kindergarten? If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all!
- Respect the opinions of others. You don't have to agree with what others are saying or posting, however, respecting their right to free speech is necessary. Be open to what others have to say and you just might be surprised at what you learn and how your own opinions are altered. If you find certain opinions too upsetting, simply avoid listening to or reading them.
- Hold your tongue. One of the problems with social media is that we can react immediately without stopping to think first and we can do this while hiding behind a screen. Ask yourself: Would I say this face to face? In front of my mother or children? In my place of worship? How will my words affect others? Once you hit post, your words are forever out there, never to be forgotten.
©Professional Etiquette Consulting LLC
