Social Media Behavior
We've all heard stories about people who have not been hired, lost their job or got reprimanded all because of inappropriate social media behavior. While some people think this is unfair on employers' parts, social media IS a public forum and we are all responsible for our social media behavior - just as we are responsible for our behavior at a company picnic or Christmas party.
While some misuse or abuse social media sites by overposting, oversharing, filthy language, bullying, etc., it can serve as a very unique and powerful business tool. Sites like Twitter enable companies to search for a specific name or brand and see what millions of people are talking about. Companies that do this and then act on that information are savvy. It gives them an edge over other companies who aren't involved in social media.
So enjoy posting and sharing on Facebook, Twitter, Blogging, etc., etc., but remember social media is a public domain and you should share like your mother is reading it -- that should keep most people in line!
(Source from Socialnomics - How Social Media Transforms the Way We Live and Do Business. by Erik Qualman, 2nd edition, John Wiley & Sons, 2013.)
You may have brought up one of the best comparisons that I have ever read. You monitor your behavior at a company Christmas party or picnic but cannot understand why you got fired for your social media post. I have posted some stupid things, but now I am more aware of what I am doing. I still find myself looking at others post or repost and thinking "you cannot really be that stupid in real life."
ReplyDeleteI agree with both of you, some of the stuff people post on social media is mind-boggling! I have some followers on Instagram that I went to high school with that post pictures that I am sure they wouldn't want their mothers or employers to see. I have seen them post pictures smoking weed and doing illegal substances. That is something that not only could get you fired from a job, but in trouble with authorities. I just don't understand what people are thinking when they post stuff like that.
ReplyDeleteGreat post & comments on this topic. I totally agree. I am shocked at some of the things that people post. I guess I'm just old fashioned, but I prefer to keep my life private. For those that want to share, that's great, but they have to keep in mind the possible repercussions.
ReplyDeleteI wholeheartedly agree that a social media user should be careful and “share like your mother is reading it.” This philosophy would cause users to think twice about any obscene, inappropriate, or racy posts or pictures they intend to upload. In the end, it may save them a headache and an embarrassing conversation in the future as they look to get a job and be seen as a professional.
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