Social Media Etiquette

Just because we live in the digital age doesn’t mean manners have become obsolete. Rather, they have evolved. Now that we communicate with one another (constantly!) through various social media channels, we need to exercise our best (online) etiquette now more than ever. I think that because we can easily hide behind a computer or phone, we often take chances online—behaving in ways we wouldn’t otherwise act in public. This can be great because it encourages us to take chances and be more forthcoming, however, it can also create a diffused sense of responsibility for our actions. In light of this, I will be going over the do’s and don’ts of social media etiquette today! Take note and don’t forget to share this post on your social media feeds, too…

The Do’s

• Do remember that your comments and postings will follow you (long, long after they have been shared). If you wouldn’t say it in front of your grandmother, it’s probably not a good idea to post it online.
• Do consider your tone. Are you a “Face-bragger” or complainer? If so, reconsider your posting strategy because no one likes a Debbie Downer or a pompous poster.
• Do think before you tag or upload. There’s nothing worse than someone tagging you in the most unflattering photo imaginable. When you do tag someone or upload a photo of them, put yourself in their shoes and reconsider if you’re unsure. Remember that your online actions can affect others.
• Do ignore. If someone is being mean to you online or says something you totally don’t agree with, just ignore them. It’s the graceful thing to do.

The Don’ts

• Don’t overshare. There is a line that is often crossed and it’s important to remember where to draw it. No, I don’t care to hear about your bodily functions or sad breakup rant. Sorry. Some things are meant to be personal, which takes me to my next point…
• Don’t get too personal. Arguments, feuds and the like are best kept offline. Personal attacks not only reflect poorly on the attacker, but let’s be honest here, no one wants to see it anyway. Also, don’t take things too personally either. If someone doesn’t friend you or tweet you back right away, it probably means they haven't been checking their account as often as you. Give them time!
• Don’t constantly ask people to follow you or like your page. It’s not only demanding, but you should let people follow and like what they want.
• Don’t overload everyone’s feed. Nothing annoys me like someone tweeting 10 things in a row or pinning 100 images all at once. I’m sure more of you are probably not fans either.

The Golden Rule

Act the way you want to be treated online. And share this post—let’s spread the word!