Remember back in the day, before social media, when we knew of someone but didn’t really know them? Or when you didn’t have to worry of what your boss/co-workers/clients would think if they found out about your crazy college days?
Today, it’s extremely difficult to define relationships. We know so many more people, without ever really knowing them. We communicate via email rather than by phone or face-to-face meetings, we’re “friends” with people on Facebook and “follow” people on Twitter, and share more information with basic strangers than we do with our own families and actual friends.
Although our networks are constantly growing and we’re undoubtedly gaining more information from these acquaintances, it is very possible to push the limits. There are certain boundaries you should set to be sure you don’t blend too much business with pleasure, or too much personal information with strangers!
For “Friends” and “Followers” You Don’t Actually Know:
• Don’t share too much personal information! It’s probably not a great idea to check into your house on 4-Square unless you like stalkers, peeping Toms, or robberies. Think back on that “Stranger Danger” talk your mom had with you in grade school and follow her advice.
• Try not to start controversy or add to controversial discussion on a regular basis. Some people just like to argue, and that’s fine. But when you’re chronically picking fights over social media, you will lose a lot of friends – fast. It’s fine to stand up for what you believe in, as long as you do it respectfully. Just like in “real life,” no one likes being attacked.
• Social media is NOT the place for extremely personal information! I’m sure everyone reading this has seen their fair share of “TMI.” If that person sharing way too many details is you, read carefully: 99% of your network could care less and would most likely prefer not to hear your private details. Keep private matters private, and think before you type.
• When it comes to your personal Facbeook page, make sure you have at least heard of the person trying to contact you before you friend them or talk to them. There are a lot of sketchy people in this world! Check out mutual friends, see if they have a phony profile picture, and in extreme cases, GOOGLE.
For Professional Connections:
• The basic rule for professional interaction on social media is simple: KEEP IT PROFESSIONAL! Set your privacy settings accordingly. Don’t post any information on anything you would feel uncomfortable discussing at your next meeting.
If you’re stuck on what’s acceptable to post, we recommend you visit this entry, or leave your questions in the comments section! We’ll be happy to help you figure out your personal social media policy.
Tags: Ad Agency, Buffalo, Communication, online safety, Quinlan, Quinlan & Company, Social Networking, Social Networks, Western New York, WNY, www.quinlanco.com
September 10, 2011 at 9:19 pm |
Social media keeps me feeling like I belong to something, and have a reason to be here. Family lives at a distance, and with social media they seem to be closer to me. Carol Ruth