Let’s consider this scenario. At your office, there is a new boss that is going to be decided by the employees. There are 3 candidates who are interested in the job. It quickly becomes clear that either Joe Sales or Sarah Marketing are the front-runners, with Sally Finance as a distance 3rd.

It looks like the vote is going to be close, and you are going to be working at the company no matter who wins. You could vote for Sally, as you align with her view points and want to give her a nod for her possible candidacy in the future. It also signals to Joe and Sarah that they will need to earn your confidence. Not a wasted vote in that sense.

However, the Monday morning after the votes have been counted, there will be a new sheriff in town. A vote for Sally will not impact who that sheriff will be.

Just a thought.