08 Oct Posters Beware: Social Media & Politics

Posted at 13:32h in social media by BYK Digital 0 Comments

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Posters Beware: Social Media & Politics

As a business owner, you have the right to put your politics out there. However, you may also need to think about the consequences of those actions, especially when it comes to hot button issues.

The Story:

Recently, our friends at MoKaBe’s had an issue with and employee going rouge and scribbling the infamous ‘FTP’ on some coffee cups. This was tweeted out by one of their supporters and the wrong people took notice. A monster that lay dormant in this city was again awoken.

Now, when things of this nature come about, it’s important – as a business – to take to social media and let the public know that you’re aware of the situation and that you’re looking into it. And…that’s probably where it would stop.

Per our policy he is on paid leave pending an investigation. B/C we take cup graffiti as seriously as the police take police murder.

— MoKaBae’s (@MoKaBes) October 7, 2015

You have to be careful when it comes to politics and hot button issues like this. You’re not just throwing out what your views are, but making your business and the people who work for you targets. And it’s dangerous, because people say and sometimes do really stupid things. Here take a look at some of the comments we found.

@MoKaBes hopefully next time there is a riot, you’re burned to the gtound — tom (@heat1268) October 7, 2015

@MoKaBes If I lived there, then I’d come in and piss on your floor — AmericaWeTrust (@america_trust) October 8, 2015

Do we think any of these people will act on these statements? Most likely not. The internet is a great place to puff your chest, but why put anyone at risk by doing so?

Business owners, please take the time and put some thought into your posts and actions. Knee jerk, snarky, politically infused posts can be a trigger. If you are going to post something, make sure your employees are well aware and they all agree with your statement. There are risks here that everyone should know about and they should be well versed on how to respond to any and all adverse reaction.

For clarity, this goes for any business on any side of an issue (Timeout as another example). Social media is a beast, so tread lightly, friends.