Crisis Management & Navigating Cancel Culture for Business Leaders

Cancel culture isn't just a problem for the rich and famous. In this blog, we’ll dive into the insights of Evan Nierman, CEO and founder of Red Banyan, on how cancel culture can affect anyone—not just celebrities or public figures. Whether you're a business leader, an entrepreneur, or simply someone interested in understanding the dynamics of cancel culture, this blog is for you. We'll explore how to navigate these challenging situations with confidence and integrity, offering practical advice on staying ahead of potential issues and the crucial role of authenticity when facing the pressures of cancel culture.

The Cancel Culture Curse

Evan describes cancel culture as a harmful trend where a group of people gang up on someone to punish them for something they said or did. This often happens online, where people quickly join in to criticise and attack, sometimes without all the facts. He explains that cancel culture is a coordinated effort where individuals take it upon themselves to act as social justice warriors or activists, targeting and harming others. 

Cancel culture can threaten not just reputations and careers but, in some cases, even lives. He’s so passionate about this issue that he wrote an entire book, The Cancel Culture Curse, which clearly reflects his stance on the matter. 

People should have the opportunity to redeem themselves. - Evan Nierman

Small & Medium Businesses At Risk 

One common misconception is that cancel culture primarily targets famous or powerful individuals. But it's often small to medium-sized business owners and everyday people who are most vulnerable. When a business owner makes a decision that goes against the popular narrative, they can find themselves suddenly facing intense backlash.

Here are some valuable points on how to be proactive and protect yourself and your business from the risks of cancel culture:

• Understand the Reality of Cancel Culture: Be aware that cancel culture is a real phenomenon, and there are people who might try to harm your reputation to boost their own. Knowing this helps you stay vigilant and prepared.

• Recognize the Power of Social Media: Today, everyone has the power to act as a reporter. You no longer need a big news outlet to uncover or spread information. Social media gives everyone access to the same tools, making it easier for information to go viral.

• Share with Care: When posting on social media, be mindful of the details you share. Avoid revealing too much personal information, like your location in real-time or pictures in front of your kid’s school. This can protect your privacy and prevent unwanted attention.

• Post with Purpose: Think carefully about what you post online. Consider how it might be interpreted and whether it reflects well on you or your business. If a post could be taken out of context or doesn’t align with your values, reconsider sharing it.

• Understand Your Role as a Spokesperson: Remember that your online presence reflects not only on you but also on your business. If you’re affiliated with a company, especially as a small or medium business owner, your actions online can impact your brand. It’s important to discuss this with your employees, as their social media activity can also affect your business’s reputation.

Cancel culture is bullying in a unique format. It's designed to be vindictive and to create a permanent punishment based on something that an individual has decided they don't like.

Tips to Avoid Crisis Situations

The challenge for small businesses is that they don't have the same level of support as celebrities or large corporations. Without a strong support system, they're much more exposed to the risks of cancel culture. A single incident can quickly spiral out of control, threatening their business's reputation and future. This lack of protection makes cancel culture a significant threat to small businesses and individuals, who may struggle to recover from such an attack.

Here are some top tips to help business owners and leaders navigate potential crises and safeguard their businesses from unexpected challenges.

• Prepare with a Crisis Plan Invest time and resources into developing a solid crisis plan before any issues arise. This preparation will ensure you're not scrambling for a strategy in the midst of a crisis.

• Invest in Your Narrative: Just like you focus on other key areas, building and maintaining a strong narrative and personal brand should be a priority. Regularly share your story through online content, press releases, and media coverage. If you remain silent, you might miss the chance to shape how your business is perceived, leaving it vulnerable to misunderstandings or attacks.

• Defend Your Reputation: If you find yourself under attack, don't sit back and hope it blows over. Be proactive in defending yourself, your company, and those who depend on you. Protect your reputation and your business from those who seek to tear it down.

Staying True & Authentic 

By focusing on what makes your business great and staying clear of overly controversial topics, you can remain true to yourself without risking the pitfalls of cancel culture.

• Be Authentic, But Mindful: It’s important to let your personality shine through on social media. People connect with authenticity, so avoid posting bland content that doesn’t reflect who you are. However, be mindful of what you share, especially when it comes to personal or private matters.

• Avoid Hot Button Issues: Steering clear of divisive topics like politics, religion, and cultural debates is a smart move. These subjects can quickly polarize your audience and lead to unwanted backlash. Instead, focus on content that’s central to your business and personal brand.

• Focus on What Matters to Your Business: Instead of engaging in controversial discussions, use social media to highlight the aspects of your business that truly matter. Talk about your company’s unique qualities, share stories that reflect your values, and celebrate the successes of your team and clients.

• Share Stories and Milestones: There’s plenty of content you can share that’s both meaningful and safe. Discuss the culture of your workplace, the moments that make your business special, and the achievements that highlight your company’s growth. This type of content not only keeps you authentic but also strengthens your brand.

• Pick Your Battles: If you choose to comment on controversial topics, be prepared for the potential consequences. Understand that taking a stand can attract criticism, so only do so if you’re ready to defend your position.

• Highlight Your Company’s Strengths: Spend your energy discussing what sets your business apart. Share the "secret sauce" of your success, whether it’s your team’s dedication, your customer service, or the unique products or services you offer. These are the stories that resonate with your audience and build a strong, positive image.

It takes a lifetime to build a reputation, only moments to lose it.

Staying prepared and informed is key to navigating the unpredictable waters of business. By implementing these tips, business owners and leaders can better protect their organizations from crises and maintain resilience in the face of unexpected challenges. 

Remember, a proactive approach and strategic planning not only help in managing potential issues but also build a stronger, more adaptable business. Keep these insights in mind, and you'll be well-equipped to handle whatever comes your way. 

Tune in to the full podcast interview with Even Nierman here: Mastering Crisis Management & Navigating Cancel Culture with Evan Nierman

What’s your key takeaway? Share with us on YouTube or in the comments below.