Discussing Controversy on Your Platform: Is It Right for You?

Discussing controversy on your platform, is this something that you should do? Is it appropriate for your brand? As someone who’s been creating content online for over 11 years, deciding whether to post seemingly controversial topics on your platform can be a challenge to navigate. I’m going to discuss whether politics, social issues, or other “controversial” topics are appropriate to discuss on your platform. This is an important topic because a lot of content creators and entrepreneurs are unsure if this is the route they should take for their brand.

Discussing Controversy on Your Platform: Should You Do it?

Discussing politics, social issues, or other sensitive topics on your platform can be a delicate balancing act. While addressing these talking points can create meaningful conversations and attract engagement, they can also divide your audience and invite backlash. The key is knowing when, why, and how to approach these discussions in a way that aligns with your brand and values.

So, should you speak out or stay neutral? I’ll share pros and cons and the questions you should ask yourself to determine if these types of discussions are right for your brand.

This is something I considered for my brand before I even started because I knew that once you start posting content online, it’s available for everyone to consume and pick apart if they want to. So, I had to ask myself: what do I want my brand to represent, and how will I go about representing it?

I see a lot of businesses and brands wading into controversial topics, and in many cases, it feels off-brand. But as human beings, we naturally feel a certain way about issues and the world around us, especially if we feel it’s going to affect our kids in some way.

Why Content Creators Discuss Controversy on Their Platform

Sometimes creators express themselves because it’s driven by personal passion. They feel so strongly about an issue that they use their platform to express their beliefs, even if it doesn’t align with their business. Others see it as a form of social responsibility, believing they have a duty to take a stand on important topics.

In some cases, controversy sparks high engagement, leading to more visibility and discussion, and some brands take advantage of that. For others, it’s a strategic move to attract or turn away a specific audience. However, not all of these posts are intentional and some stem from frustration or emotional reactions rather than a clear brand strategy. Additionally, some businesses join trending conversations to stay culturally relevant, even if the topic doesn’t naturally fit their niche.

When I first started my brand, Tinseltown Mom, almost 11 years ago, this was a question I had to consider. I don’t share controversial opinions about particular social issues or hot topics on my platform. That’s with the understanding that anything can be controversial these days. However, I have posted very controversial articles on my blog where I’m just giving information, not my opinion. Some of my most popular posts include:

• “Celebrities Who Spank Their Kids”
• “Celebrities with Autistic Kids Who Suspect Vaccines Played a Role”
• “Famous Moms Who Decided Against Aborting Their Child”
• My most controversial and popular blog post, “Celebrities Conceived by Rape or Who Bore a Child from Rape,” has received over a million views, with people openly debating in the comments section.

When I first started my brand, my focus was on presenting topics relevant to moms, the struggles they’ve been through, and helping everyday moms navigate the motherhood journey. Sharing information was naturally on brand for me at the time, but inserting my personal opinions was not.

Whatever you decide is best for your business, there are pros and cons of addressing controversial subjects on your platform.

Pros of Discussing Hot Button Topics on Your Platform

• Builds Stronger Connections – People thrive on relevant and even controversial topics. When someone they follow wades into controversy, it opens the door to deeper discussions and stronger relationships, especially if it’s in alignment with their beliefs.
• Allows You to Stand for Something – Taking a stand on important issues can establish you as a thought leader and attract a loyal following.
• Sparks Important Conversations – My blog posts have sparked many conversations over the years, particularly in the comment section of my posts. Speaking on certain topics can provide clarity, bring change, or deepen understanding of a complex issue.
• Attracts Like-Minded Followers – Addressing topics your audience cares about will naturally draw them to your brand, making it easier to refine your message and market your offer.

Cons of Discussing Hot Button Topics on Your Platform

• Risks Alienating Your Audience – Not everyone will agree with you, and you may lose followers, business, and partnerships because of your stance.
• Potential Backlash – You might receive negative comments on your posts, and even risk people “canceling” you over your stance.
• Diverts from Your Main Message – Controversial discussions might overshadow your primary mission or niche, especially if they don’t relate to your brand.
• Emotional Toll – Engaging in heated debates can be mentally and emotionally draining.

After weighing the pros and cons, the question remains: is it the right thing to do for your business? Here are some questions to ask yourself before taking a stance.

5 Questions to Consider Before Speaking on Sensitive Topics

1. Is it Relevant to Your Brand? – Does this topic align with your brand’s mission? Why are you taking a personal stance on your public platform?
2. Does it Align with Your Content Pillars? – If you have an online business, your content should draw people to your brand. Do controversial topics align with your 3-5 main content themes?
3. Does Your Ideal Customer Expect These Types of Posts? – If you have a target audience, are they coming to your platform for this kind of content?
4. What Are Your Long-Term Goals? – Will addressing this topic help or hurt your brand’s growth? Goal setting is an important factor in business and looking at your business strategy long term will help you determine which topics are right for you to speak on.
5. What Is Your Comfort Level? – Are you prepared for both positive and negative reactions?

Related: How to Find Your Business Niche

If the topic you want to address is off-brand, consider alternative ways to address those issues you’re passionate about.

Alternative Ways to Address Controversial Issues

• Invite Guest Experts – Over the years, I’ve brought on hundreds of experts and doctors to discuss controversial topics within their area of expertise.
• Share Stories Instead of Opinions – Personal experiences can be more relatable than direct arguments. You can also share true stories that fit within your brand’s message.
• Create or Join Group Discussions – If vocalizing off-topic issues is inconsistent with your brand, consider private groups or forums.
• Use Actions to Further Your Passion – Instead of posting, consider donating to a cause or volunteering to show your support.

Ultimately, whether you speak on controversial topics is up to you. If you choose to, make sure it aligns with your brand and long-term goals.

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