Election 2020: How to Comment on Someone Else's Facebook Page (and How Not To!) by Dawn Taylor

Opinion
4 years ago

Election 2020: How to Comment on Someone Else's Facebook Page (and How Not To!)

Nothing gets people going like politics, and rightly so. However, nothing sparks ugly Facebook battles like politics. As we begin what is arguably one of the most important elections of recent history, the debates on social media rival any we'll watch on television.

After viewing the 2020 Democratic Candidates Debate, I posted my thoughts on some issues on my Facebook page. My Facebook page. I carefully chose my words and hoped that if someone commented it would be respectful if they did not share my opinion. Only one person commented and they clearly did not agree with my opinion, which of course is fine, but ranted about "drinking the Kool-Aid," etc., etc., and I decided to respond in a calm and thoughtful way.

I have come up with some ideas on how to conduct oneself during what are sure to be rough waters over the next year until decision time:

  • It is OK to disagree with someone else's opinion but it isn't OK to attack. People have the right to feel the way they do. Read the post and if you don't agree, and if you choose to comment, decide how to respond calmly and carefully. And respectfully.
  • Take time to organize a response instead of firing off insults and defensive rants. No one likes to read them.
  • It is not OK to berate, belittle, shame. The person posting it has a right to feel the way they do. Offering a counter to an issue, totally fine, but it should be done respectfully, and ideally, factually.
  • Profanity is unnecessary and if you are using it on someone else's page, it is plain disrespectful. Say what you want on your own, keep your language clean on other's posts.
  • If someone posts something that invites argument, decide if it's worth responding to, especially if this person is notorious for Facebook rants. Some people cannot resist fighting. Resist! Share your own thoughts in a separate post, in a calm and rational way.
  • Respond to any negative comments by respectfully disagreeing and do not take the bait to lower yourself to attacks, insults, etc. Disagree and move on or say nothing.

There is enough division in our country. Be thoughtful, not combative, during these tough times. Facebook or other social media will be in full beast mode as we move ahead into election time.

Be nice.

Take 30 seconds and join the 30Seconds community. Inspire and be inspired.

Related Products on Amazon We Think You May Like:

30Second Mobile, Inc. is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

How to Vote By Mail in the 2020 Election: 5 Steps to Help Make Sure Your Mail-in Ballot Counts

Election 2020 Voting: What You Need to Know About Voting in the 2020 U.S. Presidential Election

Let's Vote America! Every Vote Matters on Election Day & We Can Make a Difference

Immigration Crisis: 5 First Ladies Express Horror Over Children Separated From Their Families at U.S.-Mexico Border

Elisa Schmitz
You said it, Dawn Taylor . Great post!
Mike Prochaska
yes I couldn't agree more. I stuggle with this one a lot. Most of the time when i share something political i try to just ignore the comments after.
Dawn Taylor
Mike Prochaska in sick of not speaking my mind because if bullies. If someone gets nasty I’ll just ignore and move on. It would be nice if more people would have respect for those with differing opinions. It’s simple.
Amazian Massage
Amazian Massage is focused on offering the best massage money can buy. We have no memberships to sell or paperwork to complete.

join discussion

Please login to comment.

recommended tips

Building a Closer Family: 5 Resolutions to Help Build Your Bond This New Year

Telling Your Story: The Gift of Storyworth & Passing Down Your Legacy

Screen-Free Week: How & Why to Have a Social-Media-Free Weekend

Applying for College: Relax, Mom & Dad, High School Senior Stress Will Pass