Now that the political season is done, I was wondering…how many of you voiced your opinions in public forums? Do you think it is a good idea as a business to take a public stand on political issues. Ever feel like you crossed the line of good judgement and regret what you posted? Ever had to deal with any blowback from your public positions?

@michaelpingree

I posted what I wanted to post – I never pull any punches.  People (pretty much) know where I stand on politics and some issues; however it is not a prerequisite to doing business now or in the future.  

1 – I don’t feel that any political issues at hand will effect my business acumen as it is portrayed online.

2 – Everyone does have an opinion – I am free to express mine, just as anyone else should feel free to do the same – it has nothing to do with business.

3 – I can work with anyone, no matter what their political designation.  All I have to do is steer clear of those types of conversations while doing business with some companies.

4 – If someone holds my decisions on some issues against me – I guarantee you I would not want to work with them anyway. They need me more than I need them.

5 – Last but not least, it is still a free country – I am entitled to have an opinion on any number of things – politics is only one thing.

No – I have never been embarrassed by what I posted when it comes to my own opinions.  They are my opinions, I own them and they are a part of who I am. But I also don’t make statements in general, in haste.  If I become emotional/angry over what someone else states online – I just take a step back and think on it for awhile.  

I can be diplomatic, but that is not always called for or necessary. When it is necessary, I chose my words carefully.  They are still my words, and when I can express them calmly, I do so. I don’t back down and I usually do not mince words – I don’t have to in most cases.  I just be me.

Eileen 

Hi Rich @rich-brooks  

I agree, I don’t go around spouting about issues – it’s big election time that gets people going.  I join in that if I think it’s appropriate, and I have something constructive to add.  I live in a very conservative Republican state and so my views are not always popular, although I don’t hide them, if asked. 

There is a reason that our votes remain unannounced (secret) if we wish.

Eileen

I do my best to refrain from expressing my political opinions, for the same reasons that I don’t discuss religion – it just too often leads to SHOUTING matches. The chances of someone changing my beliefs is slim-to-none and far too many people were just over the top during this campaign cycle.
With that said, I did manage a few pointed tweets prior to election day. Some silliness just demands a comment.

@supereb – We are so in agreement.

I’ll discuss anything with anyone at anytime – but the politics, for the last few months, have made people crazy.

I’d rather play in traffic than attempt to maneuver that minefield. 

Jules

I first voted when Dukakis was on the ballot, so I’ve been through a few of these, as well.

Oh, @supereb: I seriously love – and will blatantly steal – “My OH!pinion” – so perfect! 

@supereb … actually am a ‘granny’  and am about to reach the ‘closer to 60 than 50′ age – down to 3 days, lol

Would love to support your SEO/ blogging work. Would you consider supporting cuddly afghans…?

@julie-g-hughes @supereb

Ooh-ooh, can I be a granny groupie, too! You gals are soooo funny! In my Oh!pinion! I just about had to pick myself up off the floor, Miss Julie, over your “rather play in traffic” comment. I sooooo agree.

As far as the “political comments” go… I took a sabbatical this year and turned the TV OFF totally. Very happy to stay out of that mess. And the first hint I heard about people going totally nutso over the results… omg… I was the wrong person to complain to by either side, lol. I care greatly… no buts about it… AND my heart goes out to people who sometimes forget to have a heart. End of story.

Politics and business? To me they never mix well unless stirred in their own separate sloppy mixing bowls. I’m so glad to have lived for a time where citizens are clamoring to learn about democracy and political processes and citizen involvement when just a few years back, some were still being sent to gulags or simply disappeared after making innocent private comments with only a shade against the grain. In confidence, some people tell me similar repression is still happening there and they are still afraid.

If only it were a requirement for Americans to live abroad for even six months — pick any country anywhere — so they can see their America from a different perspective, develop more appreciative eyes, and learn more about how open hearts communicate when words cannot, perhaps we would all be better for the experience, including our America.

Still… GranMamas are the SAME everywhere, giggle, giggle.

Robin Carlisle