As with many polarizing topics – including sports, the flavor of cilantro and religion – it’s natural for people to get so caught up in their own convictions that they have a hard time understanding how any belief other than their own could be right. That’s why, generally speaking, I prefer to keep my political views separate from my personal and professional relationships.
But this time around discussing the upcoming U.S. presidential election with friends, family, colleagues and even semi-strangers has become somewhat of a hobby of mine. The conversations have been stimulating! I attribute this shift, at least in part, to a new, and, dare I say worldlier, perspective of how the outcome of the election may impact global business.
For the past year, I’ve been working closely with one of our clients to develop a global communications plan and activate programs in growth markets around the world, including Brazil, China, India and the Middle East. It’s really quite timely. Global business and manufacturing are important topics in this presidential election. They are also lynchpins to many of the issues that hit closer to home – including the state of the job market, tax reform and our growing national debt.
For most Americans, the upcoming election is an opportunity to stand behind the candidate who they believe has the better plan for our country. Some voters will elect the candidate that offers immediate benefit – whether tax cuts, job opportunities, healthcare, etc. – to them and their families. Still others will put personal gain aside and vote for who they think will help their company, the economy and our American culture in the long run.
I can’t tell you which of the options is “right,” but whatever your position or party, don’t be a bystander in the upcoming election. The 57th quadrennial U.S. presidential election on November 6th represents your chance to use all the information available to you – including your real-life and business experiences – to influence governmental decision making for at least the next four years and affect change. Exercise that opportunity and make sure your voice is heard!