The 3 Must-Know Social Media Etiquette Rules
How you behave on social media is just as important as how you behave as a person.
Don’t forget your social media persona is an extension of your real persona.
With the increasingly popularity of social media, learning how to navigate it can be a potential minefield if you trend carelessly. There have been reports of flippant posting, incessant ranting and offensive use of language in recent years. And these guys have got themselves in hot soup.
At the end of the day, the old-school values of being honest, true and responsible still holds true. We all love our online connections to embody these qualities…so do practise them yourselves too!
Rule #1: Be Who You Are
Never pretend to be someone else. Using a fake photo or creating a non-existent avatar will get you into trouble should you be exposed eventually.
If you absolutely have to share an image or work or article you love, remember to give credit for it. If you want to err on the safe side, ask for permission from the creator before you circulate the work.
Simply copying and pasting is not going to make it. Be original and show the world who you are.
Rule #2: Be Rationale
Your social media accounts can be assessed by almost anyone in the world (unless you choose to put it as private – but then it will defeat the purpose of having a social media account to socialise, right?)
It is easy to click that post button. But do think twice before doing so. Being trigger fast may be fatal…especially in a moment of anger.
Think of it like self-censoring your post.
Do you whine too much on social media? Another case of too much overtime or nasty boss or long-working hours?
Do you showcase your happiness too much? I know of couples who only pose their lovey dovey photos online. We know you are happy you found your Mr Right or Ms Right. Too much is just saccharine and not sweet.
Do you over-flaunt your wealth? Oh so that is your 3rd property or new sports car? We know you can afford it. But not everyone is as privileged as you.
I always ask myself if what I intend to post will trigger any tsunami of unhappiness or resentment.
Companies, like mine, do our background checks on social media before we hire. So you know what to do.
Rule #3: Be Engaging
One of my aunties (who is also a connection on my social media) asked me why I bother replying to almost everyone who comments on my post.
Well, this is basic courtesy right?
Social media is about building a community of like-minded people. It’s a community where we support, love and grow. So if someone takes time and effort to type a reply or leave a comment on my wall, all the more I will send a “thank you” or smiley or gif image to show my appreciation.
Don’t take your connections for granted.
Social media can be an effective tool to network, build relations and boost your personal brand – that is if you do it correctly and rationally.