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It will be remembered by many pundits as the midterm massacres of 2010.
This past election night, the Democratic Party suffered the biggest seat loss since World War II. Frustrated with the economy and the bitter partisanship on both sides, American voters painted the electoral map red- leaving some blue around the edges. Even President Obama, much maligned for his confidence called it ‘humbling.’
Much of the coverage the day after was a political junkies dream, but the elections have also proved to be a good model of how a Madame can survive a “schlacking” and put her comeback in the works.
Bow out gracefully
While several candidates were in tight races, most of the concession speeches from the night came within minutes of the projections. Why? Because while it’s necessary to be sure the votes are being properly counted- the last thing a nationwide avalanche of change needs is one person on the slope trying to hold back the fall. In the office, it’s much the same- even if you disagree with the new tide, fighting it could end up with you being buried under it all.
Take it all in
With the exception of a few phone calls to Democrats who lost their seats, the White House team stayed quiet on Tuesday night. We can only imagine what was happening in the West Wing, but the radio silence from Pennsylvania Avenue, probably gave the Obama Administration the best time to think that they’ve had in months. Likewise, when dealing with a big loss in the workplace take some time alone to fully process what’s happening before facing the gloating from the other side.
Acknowledge the big red elephant in the room
With the exception of Christine O’Donnell and Chuck Paladino, denial of what was happening was not the trend. By and large, acknowledging your losses is a major step in moving forward. You lost for a reason- it may be illogical, it may seem unfair- but it was reason enough to get people with doubts to root against you and keep the ones in your corner away. Ignoring that can be more damaging than just losing. Show those watching that you get it and aren’t shying away.
Start looking forward
Say what they want, politicians in DC know that this week with all of its immediate repercussions are really about 2012. While it’s important to make steps to mend the next few steps, the truth is there is always another battle up a head. Whether that battle is going to be with co-workers or another team, you need to be looking up above the fray and ahead. Defeat comes to everyone at least once, but if you plan ahead, it doesn’t have to hit twice.
