Without a doubt, the COVID-19 vaccination debate is one of the most polarising issues and discussions of our era. Many open-minded, accepting individuals are finding themselves more intolerant and judgemental about this topic, particularly our role in the solution, than most other social issues that we face.
Understandably. This virus has disseminated economies. It has killed close to five million people globally and upheaved everyone’s plans and lives along with it. It's difficult not to get passionate about the solution and our respective roles.
In a recent interview with InStyle magazine, global superstar, Jennifer Aniston, revealed she had chosen to ‘cut off’ people who won't get the COVID-19 vaccine.
"I've just lost a few people in my weekly routine who have refused or did not disclose [whether or not they had been vaccinated], and it was unfortunate," Aniston said.
"It's tricky because everyone is entitled to their own opinion but a lot of opinions don't feel based in anything except fear or propaganda."
This is the type of polarisation that we're experiencing in our personal lives and can expect to experience in our working worlds, as we start to transition back to the office. Unlike Jen, many of us won’t be able to simply ‘cut off people’, for their conflicting views or beliefs, especially if they are work colleagues or clients.
So to chat ‘vax’ or not to chat ‘vax’? This is the question!
According to Jessica Kaufman, an expert on vaccination communication from the Murdoch Children's Research Institute, "Most people are not strident anti-vaxxers. Most people who are not currently vaccinated are on some part of the spectrum of vaccine hesitancy,"
"And if the pro-vaccine people get too loud and aggressive and accusatory, they really could be pushing those people further from vaccinating because they don't feel comfortable talking about it..... they think they're going to get judged."
Dr Kaufman said sharing your own experience could potentially sway those around you to get the vaccine and help 'demystify' it. However, if they are stridently against getting the vaccine, the next option would be to avoid having conversations about it to maintain a relationship with people who are important to you.
After 18+ months working virtually for many organisations, the workplace is going to be tricky to navigate as we slowly transition back to face-to-face interactions and into new rhythms and routines.
The workplace needs to feel like a safe space, for all. The workplace needs to be a place where everyone feels comfortable and respected. The workplace needs to be a place where everyone feels like they belong.
I was always taught ‘don’t talk politics or religion'. Perhaps we need to add this topic as another taboo category in the workplace.
Of course, if it’s a mandatory requirement for your role or the organisation, then these practical conversations will be part of the transition back into the workplace.
Otherwise, let’s make a pact, not to chat about ‘our opinion’ on COVID vax.
It’s an extremely emotive topic. It’s the one conversation that’s more likely to complicate relationships vs compliment them. And conflict is inevitable.
With this in mind, here are three tips on navigating the COVID-vax talking trap, whilst maintaining a respectful workplace:
Be mindful of different people’s perspectives: We are human. We are judgemental by nature. Self-awareness is key. Listen out for your inner voice, catch yourself when you are feeling judgemental about the other person. Replace judgement with curiosity and use a ‘think bubble’ before you speak. When in doubt, leave it out of the workplace!
Exit the conversation: If and when you hear yourself or the other person being judgemental or the conversation starts to get into a ‘tit-for-tat’ about COVID-vax, exit the conversation. Let’s leave the research and science discussion for the experts and keep our opinions to ourselves. As a team, setting boundaries and granting each other permission to exit a conversation (for example, ‘This conversation is not serving us….’) for the sake of preserving the relationship, is a powerful strategy.
Focus on the future: Rather than dwelling on the covid-vax debate, as a team, get excited about looking into the future. Ask and share personal goals. Chat about your team quest and team goals for the next 90days, 120 days and beyond. Focus your limited energy and conversations on the future.
Remember, where focus goes energy flows.
It is going to take a conscious effort not to let yourself or your team get sucked into the COVID-vax talking trap. But the effort will reap the rewards for your workplace relationships.
Stay safe, look after yourself and your loved ones,
BLYTHE ROWE & Her Life on Heels.
The founder and director of Human Incite, is widely recognised for her passion, energy and her ability to shake things up. Blythe is brilliant at revving-up productivity and performance in organisations. She is on a mission to rid our workplaces of toxic behaviours, build meaningful relationships, personally and professionally and create workplaces worth belonging. Her enthusiasm simply is infectious!