Posting Political Views on Social Media

Posting political views on social media is especially risky for small business owners and the self-employed.

4 hard truths about why keeping it civil on social media matters

1. Are you prepared to lose income?

Clients, colleagues and potential referrals come in all shapes, sizes, and political leanings.

Ever wondered if your political posts could impact your business? They totally can! Not necessarily because of your stance, but how you choose to express it. Keep your comments civil to keep your income streaming.

2. All my connections and followers see things my way.

Are you sure? It may feel that way because you don’t often receive negative or opposing comments. All our connections and followers are more diverse than we think. While some may agree with our point of view, they may not agree with the style in which we deliver our message.

Moreover, many of us have friends or family members who have opposing political beliefs. Our nasty words may be read by a long-lost cousin who will probably remain that way, someone in our church, parent of our child’s friend or community group we volunteer with. Will their impression of you change? Does it matter to you?

3. What is your purpose?

Whether you provide a service or product, freelance, teach or consult, your brand is you. Don’t let a heated online debate overshadow your services, product or skills! Hello, screenshot! One viral moment can ruin a reputation.

Ask yourself, “Am I in business to make money, share my expertise, and create jobs? Or share my not-so-nice side?

4. Choosing the right platform.

Consider which social platform you are posting or commenting on. For example, your LinkedIn connections aren’t clamoring to read your unprofessional political rants. If you must share, save it for your personal Facebook page. However, no matter which platform you choose to express a nasty comment, it may still affect your business. Maybe group chats are the way to go?

You can say what you mean without being mean.

FINAL THOUGHTS:

To be clear, I am not discouraging anyone from speaking their mind. I am encouraging a civil tone. Keep it tactful. Keep it informative. Keep it without hateful name-calling. It is possible.

Before you hit that post button, pause and take a deep breath, and ask yourself:

Is this worth potentially alienating half my friend list?
Does this comment help or represent my affiliation well?

We can also consider going back to maintaining our privacy about certain topics. Sharing isn’t always caring. What do you think?

Etiquette Expert/Trainer, Author, Media Source

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