Civic Participation

Today, I volunteered to phone-bank for the Harris/Walz Campaign. Now, there are people who maybe squeamish in sharing their political beliefs in professional settings out of fear of polarizing people. My stance is: I'd rather people know who and what they are dealing with when encountering me as a human being first and a business leader second.

I have volunteered to phone-bank and canvass every federal election cycle since 2016 - the stakes have been too high for me not to. What I have discovered is where my professional skills in effective communication lends itself to my civic participation. Here are a few things I observed while phone-banking:

People REALLY do care.

I spoke with several veterans and all of them without prompting mentioned their military service. Because a key aspect of leadership coaching is active listening, I made certain to thank each person for their service letting them know they are appreciated and asking which branch they served in if they did not tell me and which years they served.

Many lit up, such as Christopher who served during "Desert Storm." He opened up sharing stories about what he did as a soldier and comparing his time to the ticket he opposes. Most people mentioned how important it was to them that people "got along" and behaved with civility as Americans. Several proudly shared how members of their families were planning to vote for the first time and how they influenced them. It was lovely talking with people across the country.

People want to talk.

Opening the door and allowing people to express themselves is a gift many are not experiencing. The Trump supporter I spoke with appreciated when I thanked her for participating in voting and not attempting to sway her in any way. Whatever fight she had was neutralized by my acknowledging her where she was. Even the man who told me he was supposed to be on the do not call list and threatened legal action was assuaged when I apologized for the administrative oversight and assured him that if he did choose to sue that I was committed to making note that he not be disturbed again.

Listening IS an act of love. I certainly do not discount how transformative loving people in this way can be.

Serving others is infinitely rewarding.

Man! I almost bailed on phone-banking today because of how much I have on my plate. I am SO glad I didn't. Speaking with grandmother's caring for their grandbabies, men hanging out with their girlfriends, people commuting home, and even those preparing for an argument REALLY reinforced the sales and communication skills I have developed over the years as a business owner. This experience reminded me that I love people, however flawed and annoying they can be.

As Forever FLOTUS Michelle Obama said, "Do something!" I'm SO glad I did today, and I am better for it.