"Who Did You Vote For?"

How would you reply if someone asked you who you voted for?

Voting is a private matter for most.  I know of a few couples and best friends who do not disclose their vote to one another.  It is one of the few things that can remain sacred to each individual; all else is public domain—or so it seems.

There are a few voting day do's and don'ts that I recommend:

Do:

• vote, if registered
• understand what you are voting for
• take it seriously, even if it won't directly affect you
• vote your own conscious and mind
• prepare before you arrive to the polls
• keep your voice down
• bring your identification in case of discrepancy
• leave your pet at home when possible
• say 'thank you'

Don't

• promote your "guy" or "proposition"
• peek at anyone's data
• hold a discussion about anything
• chit chat with the pollsters, even if they are your friend/neighbor
• sneer at anyone who is of a different political party (you'd only know this if your peeked)
• take a break during the voting process
• make a call or 'text' to find out how to vote
• allow your child to roam
• pass out political paraphernalia outside the polling place
• take food or drinks inside

Etiquette approach:  Respect is paramount when it comes to the voting process.  Replying to any personal question, can be as simple as saying, "That's rather personal, don't you think?", or "I don't discuss that.", and change the subject.

To parents of young adults, avoid lecturing, prompting, or bribing them to vote or disclose their vote.  By all means, have lively discussions to state facts, engage in debate, etc.  

In the workplace, it is best to change the subject; unless you have a more familiar relationship with that person, and are in a private setting.

I also recommend that you limit your political post and opinions on social media; I have heard of people "unfriending" someone because they are in the opposing party or have a differing opinion.   There is nothing wrong with promoting your "guy", but I strongly suggest that you refrain from; name-calling, slanderous remarks (there are two-sides to every story), threats of any kind, or blaming any one person for the entire world's problem.

As the late Rodney King said, "People, I just want to say, you know, can we all get along?"

_____________Etiquette is an attitude.

Rosalinda Randall is an Etiquette Consultant, Speaker, and Owner of Your Relationship Edge.  She has been spreading civility throughout the San Francisco Bay Area for fourteen years.  Please contact her if you would like to learn more about how you can introduce an business etiquette and civility workshop to your staff.  650.871.6200