Unless your business is specifically related to political issues, my advice is to avoid political advertisements and statements at your place of business. This morning, I went to my favorite bagel shop (as I do most mornings) and noticed that the store next door posted some political messages in their window. Based upon the traffic I see in that store, my guess is that they are struggling. My wife and I try to support businesses in our community but they just made it harder. Everyone has a right to their own views, but given that we live in a fairly divided country, there is a pretty good chance that half the people out there will be opposed to your message.
As a business owner, do you think those political messages in your window are going to drive new traffic? Doubtful. Or are they more likely to offend the other side causing people to spend their dollars elsewhere. Much more likely.
If you think you’re safe because “everyone” shares your point of view, then you’re living in a bubble. Turn on the news that the “other side” is listening to so at least you’re more aware.
I once had a store manager decide to spout off on politics and basically said that anyone who held my views (he didn’t know what they were) was an idiot. Personally, I don’t care if you hold different views, but when you insult me, that’s another matter. I soon found another place to spend my money. I don’t know what their politics are nor do I care. Frankly, I hope they never bring it up. Something tells me they are smart enough not to.
One of my best friends holds political views that are opposite of mine. When I call him toward the end of the work day, he either answers with “I can’t make it” or “I’ll see you at 5:00”. We don’t even discuss location. We both know where we’re meeting for an end of day drink. We talk business and family while avoiding going deep into politics.
So far, a lot of this has been about me. Am I unique in this regard? I don’t think so. I know lots of people who have quit following small businesses due to their expression of political opinions. The business owner has every right to express their point of view. But they had better be mindful that their customers have every right to spend their money elsewhere.
So, before you decide to go political, take a look at your financial statements. Income statement, balance sheet, statement of cash flows. Are you willing to take a financial hit to your business so you can express your political opinion? Your business is there to earn a profit for its shareholders (even if there is only one). Let it do that. If you want to use profits to donate to the cause of your choice, do that in the background. Don’t put your business front and center.
If your business could benefit from fractional CFO services, I would welcome the chance to speak with you. Please give me a call at (513) 225-8657 or send an email to [email protected]
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your cash is flowing. know where.®
Ken Homza
Copyright @ 2026 Kenneth M. Homza