*This post was written one day prior to the horrific incident in Arizona. It’s intent was to remind us of the negative consequence on our business when we decide to mix in political propaganda. But this terrible tragedy reminds us that no matter what your political views, violence and hatred should never enter into the equation. We all have a right to our opinion and should be allowed to share those opinions without fear. My thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and their families. I wanted to allow some time to pass before I posted…

here was the original post:

When our clients begin posting to their business Facebook pages, we encourage them to be themselves, if you’re funny, be funny, if you’re not funny, don’t be funny. Just be you and people will respect and appreciate that. However, I draw the line when it comes to politics, religion, and the like that often separates us instead of bringing us closer together. I tell them that your business page is often made up of people from all walks of life – not your friends and family who accept that fact that you’re a fanatical ___________ (fill in the blank). No matter the political side you fall on, you’re either going to piss off 49% or 51% of your audience. Why would you do that? Oh right, because you’re passionate and the world needs to know the truth.

But risk losing business over it? That’s a disservice to you, your family, and your employees.

And it happens all to often – both online and offline.

I can remember being in a conference room with my former boss and a group of executives who we were hoping to land as clients. I thought things were going well until he decided to jump on his soapbox and assume we all had the same frustrations about our current political party. Now, I can’t be sure they agreed or disagreed with what he was saying, but he couldn’t be sure either. It was simply too big of a gamble for me and, frankly, just arrogant to think any group of people automatically agrees with you.

But Corey, ‘if you don’t stand for something, you’ll fall for anything.’

I understand that and agree. Be proud of who you are – and that includes both your political and religious views. Just don’t use your business to be a platform to spread those views. My recommendation is to use the Dale Carnegie Principle of ‘Talk in terms of the other person’s interests’ and don’t assume you know what those interests are. If you’re at a Sarah Palin rally, then you know. If you’re on your business blog on Linkedin page, stick to adding value to your entire network – and stay away from those dreaded eight words.

your friend,

corey