We all know that posting content for your business takes guts. You’re putting yourself out there, trying to connect with your audience, and then... BAM. A comment pops up that makes your stomach drop.

Even if it’s not full-on trolling, a snarky remark or a bit of offhanded criticism can really knock your confidence. So what should you actually do when someone leaves a negative comment on your content?

Here are six friendly, practical steps to help you handle it without spiralling, retreating into your duvet, or deleting all your posts.

1. If it makes you uncomfortable, hide it

Instagram and Facebook both let you hide comments without deleting them. The person who left the comment? None the wiser.

This is great for comments that aren’t technically offensive, but still leave you feeling a bit icky. You stay in control, your feed stays clean, and your energy stays protected. Win-win-win.

2. Take it to the DMs (if it feels right)

Sometimes a comment isn’t rude, it’s just a bit blunt, or someone misunderstood your post.

If it feels like a conversation worth having, move it to the DMs. You can reply with something like: “Thanks for your comment. I'm happy to chat more in messages if you'd like!”

It shows you’re open to discussion but keeps things from spiralling publicly.

3. Don’t argue. Just... don’t

Even if you’re 100% in the right. Even if you have the perfect comeback. Don’t waste your energy on public debates with people who aren’t there to listen.

You’re not here to win arguments. You’re here to grow your business and help your people. And if someone’s being rude for the sake of it? You don’t need to engage.

4. Block and report if needed

This is what the tools are there for. If someone is being persistently negative, rude, or making you feel on edge every time you post, just block them.

You don’t owe anyone access to your content. And if it crosses a line into abuse or harassment? Report it. Immediately.

And if the people making you feel uncomfortable are people you know, like ex-colleagues or overly nosy family members, it’s OK to block them too. Do what you need to do to feel safe.

5. Protect your confidence

One unkind comment can stick in your head way longer than all the lovely ones. That’s completely normal (and completely annoying).

If it rattles you, take a break. Make a cuppa. Go for a walk. Text a friend. And remind yourself that:

• Most people are kind.

• Your ideal clients aren’t the ones picking apart your captions.

• You’re doing a brilliant job, and your content is helping someone.

Don’t let the fear of a negative comment keep you from showing up at all.

6. You don’t have to navigate this alone

This kind of confidence-building and boundary-setting is exactly what I help with inside my program, The One Where You Learn Instagram.

We look at how to show up consistently, comfortably and confidently, even when social media feels intimidating. We build a strategy that works with your life and your energy (not against it).

And if you’re feeling a bit wobbly, why not book a completely free Instagram Confidence Call with me?

I’ll take a look at your profile, give you some quick wins, and if we both feel like the program might be a good fit, I’ll tell you a bit more about how it works.

Book your free call here or send me a DM on Instagram with the word ‘confidence’ and I’ll ping the link straight over.