As Thomas Jefferson stated, “I never considered a difference of opinion in politics, in religion, in philosophy, as cause for withdrawing from a friend.”

1. The very best of friends can disagree on politics. But, why invite controversy and discord? I don't care about your political views. You're not going to change my mind, and I'm not going to change yours. Your friends probably don’t want to lose your friendship, but you may want to reconsider talking about politics on social media. If you continually push your views on your audience, it will affect your business.
   
   
2. There's plenty of political turmoil in the world without having to see it on Facebook too.  A huge portion of the people on social media are there for connections, education and entertainment.  Many use social media as a tool to brighten their day in their own way.  There is little about politics that brightens anyone’s day, including the people immersed in it. They are always so angry and disrespectful to each other. How will the undecided or opposite side ever be convinced to a new way if there is not a ‘WE’ approach to making things better.
   
   
3. It will cost you, your business. Thomas Jefferson’s message is a wonderful ideal to strive for; unfortunately, the polarity in today’s political times seem to disprove of Thomas’s insights. 
   

I have not shut the door on friends with differing views, but have chosen not to do business with someone after seeing their views plastered across many social media sites.  For me, it was a blessing in disguise. I would not do business with someone with views and prejudices that are in opposition to my core values.  Had I not known, I was very likely going to invest in their services.  But seeing their political and moral views rammed across the timelines, I knew that would not have been a wise choice for me to work with them.  Unless your business niche is absolutely 1000% in alignment with your views, you dramatically increase repelling potential customers and driving away friends.  If your brand appeals to a wider segment of the global community social media brings us, keep your polarizing views to yourself.   

You also may be interested in reading my blog, What to Tweet, Part 1. 

What Should You Tweet?

First, have a clear mission of why you are on Twitter, and stay true to your mission. Become a resource of valuable information that will either educate or entertain your Followers.

There are many ways to be effective on Twitter. If you are here for business, keep politics, personal, and all other non-business issues off your business Twitter account.

Read more.