“Don’t get into a pissing match with a skunk.”

Twenty-five years ago, I had a boss who was a pretty odd duck – I have a lot of great stories about him. But what I remember most was a piece of advice he gave me one day. He said, “Don’t get into a pissing match with a skunk.” I’m pretty sure he didn’t coin the phrase, but it’s where I heard it first.

Serving as the IT communication officer for the past eight years has helped me grow a tough skin. I can pretty much shake off the nasty comments or unfair remarks that are sometimes directed my way. But occasionally, an anonymous blog comment really ticks me off and I’m tempted to use all the creativity and punchy prose I can muster to craft a response.

Before work this morning, I read such a blog comment. Good Susan and Evil Susan were arguing on my shoulders as I drove to work this morning. By the time I was halfway to campus, I had written several great (and sarcastic) blog titles in my head. Even as I parked my car, I thought the answer was to write a post in response to the mean-spirited comment.

By the time I reached my desk, the pissing match advice had made its way into my head and I knew I wouldn’t respond.

And, actually, this is a solid principle for communication professionals. Responding is not always the right action. To correct a factual error? Yes, respond. To correct a misunderstanding? Yes, respond. To get psychological satisfaction? “Don’t get into a pissing match with a skunk.”