Should I post my political views on Facebook?

The answer is: it depends.

If you’re reading this article, perhaps you’re looking for validation for your recent rants for or against the current administration. Sorry to say, you will not be getting it here.

Anyone who’s on Facebook knows it’s full of political views. In fact, that’s the sole reason I unfollow people on Facebook.

Facebook politics has turned friends into enemies and enemies into friends.

It’s caused major divisions in families, but it's likely caused closer connections as well. Our constant connection exposes us to political views year round, instead of just at Thanksgiving – when we only had to be tight-lipped for an hour or so.

When it’s ok.

I’m not saying you can’t post political views on Facebook. Free speech and all that. But keep it on your personal page. Will you alienate some of your friends and family? Probably. But that’s a risk you’re gonna have to take. And maybe it’s worth it to let everyone know what you stand for. Good for you! 

Personally, I don’t post anything political. I don’t even comment on political posts. I’ve learned long ago that nothing I say will change anyone’s mind. It will only provoke them. I also don’t want to lose friendships with people just because we don’t agree on politics. Plus, I’m not passionate about politics. It would be "off brand" for me to post political rants.

When it’s not ok.

If you use your personal page for business, DO NOT post political rants. People follow people and brands on social media because they like what they have to say and want to hear more. 

Unless you’re a political figure and you’re organizing a political rally, it’s just in bad taste. 

EXCEPTION:

If you are known for your political rants, give the people what they want! 

If you are known for being a beauty consultant, people want to know your opinions on beauty products. If your posts are inconsistent with your brand promise, people will no longer trust you. They will unfollow. 

Just because people nod and smile when you’re ranting in person, it does not mean they agree with you. Assume that your audience is an even mix. 

EXCEPTION:

If you only sell your products to right wing conservatives, maybe it’s ok, once in a while to post your opinions, because you know for a fact that your audience will agree and be supportive. It’s like associating your brand with a noble cause (look up buycotting). As long as the post is positive in nature and ACCURATE. But most of the time, that’s not the case. 

Do not engage (politically)!

Posting is not the only place these political rants show up. Engagement is a huge part of succeeding on social media. Conversations are driving sales and I encourage anyone who has a business page to engage in conversations (more than posting!).

Unfortunately, comments sections are where a lot of political rants manifest from seemingly unpolitical topics. Some hardcore commenters will derail any conversation toward politics.

FOR EXAMPLE: A post about cheeseburgers suddenly becomes a forum about “the Wall.” What?? Don’t engage and don’t let that happen on your threads. It takes away from your original message about cheeseburgers, which is really the important conversation you’re trying to have.

In conclusion, I realize that this article is a bit ranty in nature and I apologize for that. This is a topic that has been weighing on me. As a social media consultant for many business owners, I wanted to share my opinions on this potential reputation-destroying action.