SUBSCRIBE The election and global politics are heating up. It's all over the news, and in conversations across America. No matter which side of the political fence you call home, the world is in for a time of tumultuous debate and discord. And how does that affect your business, you rightfully ask? Here is a list of five rules to help you navigate the maze and ensure that your business is not affected by your politics and global point of view.
1. Do not assume you know who someone voted for or what they believe is best for this country, or those across the globe. One thing we've learned during the past year is that there are a lot of silent thinkers out there who do not see things the way others do—as is their right. When it comes to your work, do not discuss politics or world events. No matter how certain you are that your client or your co-worker sees things the way you do. Steer clear.
2. Leave party politics and world events out of your business. That doesn't mean walk away from the ideals you believe in—you should continue to support them. You can put your company's resources to better use for a cause you believe in than for political party affiliation. Rather than attacking an individual, say, "I am dead set against book bans and will speak out on that issue when I can." Our society requires discourse and debate, and since the workplace is intermixed with the personal space, you can't ignore it … nor should you have to.
3. Bumper stickers and other signage in the workplace? Nope.
4. If you're going to do pro bono work (as Blue2 Media is for some issues we believe in), then be sure to ask the team you assemble if they are okay with your project. If they are not, then do not penalize them, nor question them. A good way to avoid them having to come out of the closet is to send an e-mail asking who would like to work on your project. Let them opt in, rather than forcing them to opt out.
5. Your vendors are your choice. If you are finding a vendor difficult to stomach because of their insistence on telling you why their candidate was the next Messiah or Goddess, change vendors. Do business with vendors who make you comfortable. That's another reason to leave political issues out of your business conversation—to avoid offending others. Make a change if you want. This is America; and free choice is what it's all about on both sides of the aisle.
That's it. Five simple rules. And God Bless America.
6. Be respectful of stressful times. Don't send out an e-blast on Inauguration Day, no matter what you think about who is being sworn into office. "Go dark," as we say. Feelings about this election coming up will come spilling out, and not being on your client's radar that day is a good thing. Staying silent never hurt a business in chaotic times. Mum's the word on stressful days.
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Condé Nast Onsite Perks
I have a friend who works at Condé Nast in One World Trade Center, which, of course, is the building that replaced the Twin Towers. I know, I know. Not an easy address, if you ask me, but that isn't the point. My friend was there for a meeting. "You won't believe it. They have doggy daycare and a child center open until five every day for childcare. And get this - they have a bar that opens at 4:00 p.m., and they were having a champagne tasting for employees the day I was there. Just saying!"
People are struggling with post-COVID 'bring yourself to work' day. The data is in. It's important for interactions between employees in person and for building the kind of relationships that create successful companies. Rome wasn't built in a day, and all that. I think Condé Nast has the right idea. It helps with not having to add childcare/dog care costs to a return to work, and it says, "we care about you," even if it is a bit self-serving. Still counts, right? 'Bring yourself to work' day. Hats off to Condé Nast. - Christine
Taylor Swift: The Biggest Influencer by Far...
Heather Cox Richardson, whom millions of people read daily to get the news in a way that won't send them into a fetal position, offered some interesting thoughts about what Taylor Swift's posse/watering hole/network offers for a movement mentality. Do not underestimate the power of women in droves.
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