Why Authors Should Avoid Getting Political Online
In today's hyper-connected world, social media provides a powerful platform for self-expression, and many authors use it to share their thoughts, promote their work, or connect with fans. However, authors should beware of the potential pitfalls of being overly political online, especially for those whose careers depend on a wide and varied audience.
A recent incident involving a Macmillan Marketing VP’s election-related post serves as a cautionary tale for authors navigating the complex relationship between personal beliefs and public image. The controversy began when a vice president at Macmillan, a major book publisher, made a public post on social media regarding the U.S. presidential election. The post, which expressed support for Trump winning the presidential race, sparked backlash from readers and authors, highlighting how a single social media statement can have far-reaching consequences for a professional's career and the companies they represent.
This incident raises important questions: Should authors, particularly those in the publishing industry, be careful about expressing political opinions online? Is there a place for politics in the professional public sphere? Here are a few things to remember before sharing political views on social media:
1. Your Audience May Not Share Your Views
The most immediate risk of getting political online is alienating potential readers. Readers come from a variety of backgrounds and hold different beliefs, and in a world where polarised opinions are common, it’s all too easy for someone to disagree with you on a fundamental level.
2. Your Audience May Misinterpret Your Views
It’s not just about differing political beliefs – it’s about the tone and language used. A post that feels aggressive or dismissive toward a particular group could alienate not just political opponents but also readers who value nuance, balance, and respect for differing viewpoints.
3. The Publishing Industry is Diverse and Highly Collaborative
The publishing world, like most industries, is a melting pot of people with varying perspectives and beliefs. Authors work with editors, agents, publishers, marketers, and designers, all of whom may hold differing opinions. Publicly sharing political views online can strain professional relationships, especially in a collaborative environment where mutual respect is key to a successful project. A politically charged post may inadvertently create tension or even lead to rifts with colleagues or business partners who disagree.
The controversy at Macmillan also serves as a reminder of how interconnected the publishing industry is. Publishing houses are not just platforms for individual authors; they are intricate ecosystems where marketing strategies, brand image, and public perception are carefully managed. A public political statement, particularly from someone in a leadership position, can reflect poorly on the entire company, which can, in turn, impact the authors they represent.
4. Social Media is Not the Best Place for Thoughtful Debate
While social media offers a convenient outlet for spontaneous thoughts, it’s often ill-suited for thoughtful, nuanced discussion. Politics, by nature, requires careful analysis and an ability to see beyond the immediate emotional reaction. A tweet or Instagram post, limited in length and often written in the heat of the moment, is rarely the best vehicle for discussing complex issues.
5. The Streisand Effect: Amplifying Controversy
The viral nature of social media means that once something is posted, it can spread rapidly, and many users may never even see the original context in which it was shared. This “Streisand Effect” – where efforts to suppress or downplay something only make it more popular – can hurt your reputation and take attention away from the work you want to be known for. In the case of authors, this can mean that your writing gets lost in the noise of political discourse, overshadowing the message you’re trying to communicate through your books.
6. Protecting Your Brand as an Author
Every author has a personal brand that they cultivate, whether consciously or unconsciously. The way you present yourself online – what you say, how you say it, and where you engage – becomes a part of your professional identity. Politics can be a divisive issue, and while many writers may feel compelled to share their views, it’s important to recognise that what you post online can shape how your audience perceives you.
While every author has the right to their opinions, and some may feel strongly about certain political issues, it's important to weigh the potential consequences of sharing those opinions online. Politics can be a tricky subject in any context, and when it comes to an author’s public persona, the stakes are high.
Ultimately, finding a balance between personal expression and professional responsibility is key. If you are unsure about your online content or would like copy that’s thorough and politically neutral while conveying the right message then please get in touch with us and we will be happy to help.
This blog post was based on the following article: https://tinyurl.com/76h2vpbu