How to get attention with controversy

This Kuma
3 min readAug 1, 2023

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by TheKuma

In today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving digital age, grabbing attention has become increasingly challenging. With millions of messages bombarding our screens every day, individuals and businesses are constantly seeking innovative ways to stand out from the crowd. One approach that has proven to be effective, albeit controversial, is utilizing controversy to attract attention. However, it’s essential to approach this strategy with caution and ethical consideration.

To pique people’s interest, dare to challenge conventional wisdom. Introduce unique perspectives on current issues or propose thought-provoking ideas that go against the mainstream. By presenting unconventional views, you create a stir that encourages discussion and curiosity among your target audience.

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Addressing sensitive topics can spark heated debates and elicit strong emotions. When approaching such subjects, exercise empathy and be mindful of diverse opinions. Focus on initiating constructive dialogues rather than merely stoking conflict. Strive to present well-researched arguments to add value to the conversation.

Provocation can be a powerful tool when used responsibly. Engage your audience with provocative content that challenges their beliefs while maintaining a respectful tone. Remember, the goal is to stimulate thought and foster discussions, not to alienate or offend.

Timeliness plays a crucial role in attracting attention through controversy. Stay up-to-date with current events and adapt your message to relevant issues. By doing so, you demonstrate relevance and responsiveness, increasing the likelihood of capturing attention.

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Embrace the diversity of opinions and engage with individuals who hold contrasting viewpoints. Respectful debates and discussions with those who disagree can lead to a deeper understanding of various perspectives and promote healthy discourse around your controversial topic.

When courting controversy, authenticity is key. Ensure that your beliefs and statements align with your core values and brand identity. Being transparent about your intentions and motives will earn you respect, even from those who may not agree with you.

While controversy can attract attention, avoid crossing the line into sensationalism or clickbait tactics. Exaggerating claims or deliberately inflaming emotions may garner immediate attention but can tarnish your reputation in the long run.

Strive to provide solutions and insights that arise from your controversial viewpoints. Instead of solely focusing on the controversy itself, offer a way forward or potential resolutions to the challenges being discussed. This positions you as a problem solver and not just an attention-seeker.

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Pay close attention to the feedback and reactions you receive from your controversial content. Analyze the impact of your strategy and be prepared to adapt based on the insights you gain. Learning from your audience’s response is crucial for refining your approach.

In conclusion, using controversy to garner attention is a double-edged sword that requires careful handling. When employed responsibly and ethically, controversy can serve as a powerful tool to captivate audiences, initiate discussions, and drive positive change. However, it should never be used as a manipulative or divisive tactic. Always prioritize respect, empathy, and authenticity while pushing the boundaries of conventional thinking.

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