. . . about politics . . .
(from http://www.huffingtonpost.com/anna-post/the-etiquette-of-talking-_b_87893.html)
1. Just the facts, ma’am. Stick to discussions of general knowledge: What is a candidate’s stance? What did they say in the debate? What are the latest headlines? Stay away from anything too personal, opinionated or judgmental: Who are you voting for? I hate the (insert political party here)! How on earth could you support that candidate?!
2. Have an exit strategy. It takes two to argue, and if you choose not to participate the other person will run out of steam fast. Have a stock answer ready to get you out of a heated conversation: I guess we just don’t see eye-to-eye; or: I’ll have to consider that; or: For me, it’s private.
3. What’s your position? Think about what your purpose is for the conversation. Are you there to learn? Are you there to try to change somebody’s mind? If you’re going to do that, I would strongly suggest doing it in a respectful manner. Or are you just there to vent, to dump on somebody? That’s neither productive nor helpful to your own cause.
4. Know when to fold ‘em. There are still times I’d strongly advise avoiding political topics, especially if it’s liable to get heated. Weddings and holidays are risky; they are memorable events, and you don’t want the memories to be bad. When meeting new people it’s best not to broach such a personal subject—think your girlfriend’s parents or a new client.
5. Assume nothing. No matter how perceptive you think you are, you can’t possibly know what someone else’s personal beliefs are. Don’t presume that someone agrees with you—or disagrees, for that matter.
What do you think?
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