6 Things To Consider Before Hitting Send On That Post-Election Rant

Post-election emotions are running high, and nowhere is that more evident than on social media. From hashtags like “Your body, my choice” to inflammatory comments wishing harm on political opponents, the digital landscape has become a battleground for deeply polarized views. Just this week, a teacher resigned after a viral video surfaced in which she threatened Trump supporters, while a Disney actress came under fire for Instagram stories calling for unrest against Trump and his followers, saying they should "never know peace."

While everyone is entitled to their opinion, the line between personal and public space has blurred in the age of social media. Many users forget that even seemingly private posts can have a far-reaching impact—on their careers, reputations, and the organizations they represent. A post that feels like a quick vent could end up costing you your job or damaging the brand of your employer.

You might think, But it's my personal page, right? Technically, yes. But in a world where digital footprints are easier to trace than ever, it's incredibly simple for others to link you to your workplace—even if you don't overtly state where you work. As someone who's worked in internal communications for years, I've seen firsthand how quickly people can escalate complaints. I've received multiple messages via company websites like, "Your employee posted x, y, and z. Is this the kind of behavior you encourage at [Company]?" These inquiries can be damaging, even if the posts weren't intended to reflect company values.

Companies find themselves walking a fine line between supporting employees' right to free speech and protecting their brand integrity. When personal opinions clash dramatically with company values, it can create a public relations nightmare. It’s a balancing act, and unfortunately, not everyone manages it successfully.

Before you hit send on that emotional post or heated rant, here are a few things to consider:

1. Pause, Reflect, and Think Long-Term

The internet has a memory, and once you post something, it can live on forever—even if you delete it. That meme, rant, or off-the-cuff comment could be screenshot, shared, and resurfaced later. And trust me, delete doesn’t always mean gone.

2. Would Your Manager Approve?

Imagine your boss sees your post. Would you be proud of it? Would it align with your company’s core values? If the answer is no, it might be time to rethink hitting “post.”

3. Clarify Your Views

If you feel compelled to share an opinion on a hot-button issue, make it clear that your views are yours alone and don’t represent your employer. A simple disclaimer can help differentiate personal commentary from professional identity, though it may not always shield you from backlash.

4. Take a Step Back in Highly Charged Moments

Emotions run high in the wake of elections or other divisive events. It’s tempting to channel that energy into a fiery post or comment. But consider taking a breath and holding off for a bit. Time often gives us the perspective to engage in more thoughtful, constructive dialogue.

5. Engage Respectfully

Social media is not an arena for personal attacks. Disagreement is inevitable, but it’s important to communicate respectfully. Rants can easily escalate into conflicts that further polarize people rather than fostering meaningful debate.

6. Consider the Bigger Picture

A moment of frustration or impulsivity online can ripple out into your professional world. What’s posted today could come back to haunt you in an interview, a performance review, or even in your job security.

We’re all navigating through emotionally charged times, but it’s crucial to remember that our digital presence can have lasting consequences. So, next time you're about to fire off that passionate post, take a beat and ask yourself: Is this worth the risk?

What other tips or strategies would you suggest for handling the emotional turbulence of social media in these times?

(And yes, these views are my personal opinion.)