So, is there a place in business for politics? A lot is going on in the world—wars, terrorism, and a myriad of issues on the home front. I once tweeted, “Repeat after me, tweeting about politics will change no one’s position. It will only polarize those who disagree with me… I mean us.” This tweet was meant for me. It was tweeted to me, from me, as a reminder to stay out of the fray. Controversy is not a branding opportunity; I’m part of a brand.
The tweet was naïve because it ignored the fact that controversial social media posts not only polarize those who disagree but also attract those who share your opinions. My wife anonymously tweets and shares her opinions on controversial subjects, attracting like-minded followers. But she’s not in business; she’s not building a brand. That’s all good, but I haven’t answered the question, have I?
Is There Place for Business in Politics?
Yes, there is. Businesses have supported politicians and parties since government was invented. Industries create and finance lobbies to protect and advance their interests. Organizations contribute to politicians who accommodate their needs. Is it selfish and self-serving? Most likely, but not always and not entirely.
For example, I worked with an organization that supported the trucking industry. They’d worked with and made friends in the industry for more than 25 years. So, they openly endorsed legislation that advanced the trucking industry’s interests. Is this self serving? Yes, it is, but it’s a lot more. It’s true these were their customers, and restrictions that affect the industry also affected the business, but it was more than that. They cared about trucking because they cared about their friends. They wanted what was best for trucking and believed what was best for trucking was almost always what was best for America.
However, It’s Not the Place for Personal Opinion
Business isn’t the place for sharing your own beliefs unless they match your organization’s. I strongly supported the trucking industry, as did the company I worked with, so we were aligned. I wrote about trucking and shared pro-trucking platforms on social media. I didn’t share my personal non-industry related politics.
Last week, I distributed political information at a local college. I was nameless. I wasn’t part of a business brand. When you represent your brand, you should avoid controversy. A business is responsible to its customers, vendors, and employees. Sharing controversial opinions and political beliefs could hurt the business, which in turn can affect everyone.
How Can I Help You?
I like to help people and organizations, but I have three criteria I consider before taking an assignment – I believe in what the organization stands for, I know I can help, and it looks like fun. If you have any questions, Contact Me.
Does your business have a management training plan? Many organizations, large and small, use my book, The New Manager’s Workbook a crash course in effective management, as the basis for their leadership development program. Check it out.
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Photo by Hunters Race on Unsplash
