While managing the social media presence and accounts for a business is never easy, what can make these tasks even more difficult is if the field or industry for your business in inherently controversial.
Because many people find that social media is a great platform to share their opinions, especially about businesses, having a controversial business can make you an easy target for trolls of social media. So to help you better navigate this terrain, here are three social media tips for businesses in a controversial field or industry.
Stick With What’s Relevant For Your Business
Although some businesses might know that they’re in a controversial field or industry, others might only find themselves in this position on an occasional basis or when certain news stories are taking center stage. For example, working in the oil fields might not always be controversial, but it might be on some days.
So when you find yourself on the more controversial side of things, Sheri Frey, a contributor to Business2Community.com, recommends that you try to stick with just the content and social media posts that are relevant to your business. Even if there’s something in the news that you might want to comment on, if it doesn’t have anything to do with your business, it’s usually safer to just stick with posting about things that are directly related to the work you’re involved in.
Watch What Your Competitors Are Doing
No business is without competitors. And while this can be something that you dislike, when it comes to social media, seeing what your competitors are doing and how that’s playing with their audience can be beneficial to you.
As a part of this, Brent Barnhart, a contributor to SproutSocial.com, shares that if you see your competitors share something on social that’s getting some very negative reactions, it’s probably a good idea for you to steer clear from posting that same type of content. By doing this, you might be able to have a better understanding of what your target audience likes and will respond well to.
Know How To Respond To Negativity
Because you’re in a controversial industry or field, there are going to be people who dislike you or what your business is doing. So when these people come at you on social media, it’s good to know how to respond to this negativity.
To help you strategize for these times, Mattan Griffel, a contributor to AllBusiness.com, recommends that you try to respond quickly to negativity and do whatever you can to diffuse or calm down the situation. Sometimes, just letting someone know that you see where they’re coming from or hear their side is all that’s necessary.
If you work in a field or industry that causes occasional controversy, consider using the tips mentioned above to help you figure out how to have a strong social media presence amidst potential challenges.
