In the current volatile political atmosphere, it can be difficult to separate your business role from your personal beliefs. Large companies, including Apple and Starbucks, have stepped into the spotlight to speak up on social issues, including immigration, climate change and health care.
But for small or new companies, the risk can be much higher when you intersect business and politics; it could create a make-or-break situation that new entrepreneurs aren’t equipped to handle.
On the other hand, speaking out on a meaningful issue may be well worth the risk, paying off by connecting the company more deeply to its customers and strengthening its reputation in the communities it serves.
If you’re thinking taking a stand on a hot-button issue, there are steps you should take first, including considering your goal and acknowledging the risk.
Learn more about assessing the risk of your small company speaking out, and more in this edition of Founders Flash.
- Should small businesses speak out on controversial topics? (Entrepreneur)
- Things that every startup should consider before the fundraising tide goes out (Tech Crunch)
- Debunking the myth of the overnight success (Forbes)
- 7 biotech ventures that made the cut for the Harvard Life Lab (AmericanInno)
- Entrepreneurs, here’s how to make the best use of your board (Venture Beat)