Social Media is such a vital tool to have when tragedy strikes. Platforms such as Facebook allow you mark yourself as safe when tragedy strikes. For some, this may be the only way to know if your loved ones have made it through tragedy. While social media provides a pathway for those to express their thoughts and feelings during tragic times, it also allows to companies to respond through social media. How a company reacts to tragedy on social media can directly affect their branding. There are many Do’s and Don’ts that companies should follow as events are unfolding. This list is referenced by my personal friend and business acquaintance, Brian Williams.
Do: Suspend any and all automated messaging as events are still unfolding.
Dont: Use topical situations to try and sell something. Ever.
Do: Silently use company resources to fundraise and/or build awareness.
Don’t: Use company resources to forward personal, socio-political stances on an issue.
Do: Be mindful of future messaging that may be deemed questionable, no matter how unintentional.
Don’t: Go about business as if nothing has happened at all. It’s understandable that not all businesses are going to have a vested interest in the aftermath of national or global tragedies, but that shouldn’t make you exempt from being able to show compassion and empathy in the process.
Reference: https://www.scripted.com/writing-samples/how-brands-should-handle-tragedy-on-social-media-1jd
Social Media Marketing 