By Sharon Schweitzer
President-elect Donald Trump will be sworn into office as the 45th Commander-in-Chief this Friday, January 20, 2017. Politics and the 2017 inauguration are an especially touchy subject. Political partisanship has been on the rise, along with public incivility. So, what is the best way to navigate those post-inauguration thorny political discussions?
Here are tips to graciously handle political questions and conversations:
Respectfully respond and engage in conversation: Expressing your beliefs can be done in a way not destined for a political brawl. For example, citing research and concrete reasons why your views align a certain way encourages more of an intellectual conversation, as opposed to a war of opinions. Just as you want to express your beliefs, be courteous and let the other person express his or her beliefs, even if you disagree.
You can mannerly reconcile conflicting beliefs: It’s inevitable that disagreements will arise. When they do, handle them with grace, dignity and respect. For example: “That’s an interesting viewpoint, and you raise some valid points. However, my research reveals…” Never raise your voice, reveal anger, abruptly walk away or make it personal.
You can exercise your right to privacy: Keeping your opinion to yourself is professional and privacy is indeed possible. Have a few authentic statements in your arsenal: “After such a contentious election and the inauguration, I’m keeping my opinion to myself. I appreciate your interest and wish you the best in 2017.” By acknowledging and thanking them for their genuine interest, you defer a sticky political conversation, and maintain privacy.
Phrases to end a post-inauguration political conversation before it gets heated:
- “Thanks for sharing your post-inauguration political views, it certainly gives us something to consider. Bye for now.”
- “I’m uncomfortable discussing politics at social events, but I enjoyed visiting with you. Excuse me.” Then step away.
- “It’s nice to meet you, enjoy the rest of (event). Excuse me.”
- “Thanks for your time. Maybe I’ll see you at our next lunch meeting. Excuse me.”
Consider these statements to segue to new topic:
- “Jamal, thanks for that post-inauguration update. Kalia, as our host you mentioned a best-selling book you were reading. Will you share more please?”
- “Post-inauguration 2017 will be interesting. Who has spring break travel plans?”
- “Has anyone seen the golden globe award-winning movie Manchester by The Sea?”
- “We are going to the game and have extra tickets. Who wants to go?”
- “Who else has seen the new exhibit at the metropolitan museum?”
Above all else, graciously handle yourself: Whether you decide to respond or not, be tactful, polite, and remember that educated responses allow you to cordially engage, or graciously decline whenever these inevitable conversations cross your path. We all understand and recognize respect.
Sharon Schweitzer, an international etiquette expert, author, and the founder of Protocol & Etiquette Worldwide. Check out Protocol & Etiquette Worldwide at: www.protocolww.com/
Become a Harlem Insider!
By submitting this form, you are consenting to receive marketing emails from: . You can revoke your consent to receive emails at any time by using the SafeUnsubscribe® link, found at the bottom of every email. Emails are serviced by Constant Contact
