When shopping our ethics doesn't quite reach our social media behavior

In late January of this year, a Harris poll found that 1 in 4 American consumers had stopped shopping at their favorite stores because the companies no longer aligned with their values.

Target has been struggling with backlash from their DEI retreat for months. Tesla…well, you know how that’s been going. 

And just this morning I read yet another post from someone who’s cancelled their Amazon Prime membership. 

The movement to align how we spend our money with the ethics we espouse is growing. 

But you know where I’m not seeing this movement manifest as loudly? Facebook. Instagram. What’sApp. 

If I had to venture a few guesses, I’d say it’s because:

The Fomo is real

In Q1 of this year, Meta shared they have 3.43 billion monthly active users across their platforms. There’s no denying the role that can play in a business’s bottom line (Note the word 'can.')

Behavior is hard (but not impossible) to change

Engaging consumers through social media has been the default for the past 2 decades. But remember that social’s just one tool in the toolbelt. If it’s your only or primary tool, maybe it’s time to start asking yourself why. 

We don't know how else to do business

Not everyone’s in this boat, but for those who are it’s easy to feel like there isn’t any other choice. But there are foundational marketing tactics, tools, and channels that still work (Companies are still putting up billboards, no?). 

Or maybe you’re in the 4th camp. 

The group of folks who’ve been feeling the ick for awhile but haven’t been able to articulate 𝘸𝘩𝘺, and are afraid they’re alone on Anti-Social Island (not to be confused with Antisocial Island. Not the same thing.) I promise you, there are more of you than you think. 

If this sounds like you? If you’re ready to get off the hamster wheel, or you’re just looking to give a little less of your resources to platforms you’re not aligned with, email me.

I’m building something that’s meant for you, and I'd love to share more info with you.