Social Media Accountability

I recently read a post on Facebook where one person asked the audience if they could remember how they used to ‘vent’ before Facebook…?  This made me think of all the inappropriate posts I read on a daily basis and just how invincible so many of us seem to feel on Facebook. ​

In marketing we like to talk about the power of ‘word of mouth’ but in real life, ‘word of mouth’ only goes as far as the next person.  Unfortunately, that is not the case in the world of Social Media and the ripple effects of one comment could almost be impossible to fully comprehend.  One inappropriate comment could be read by your entire group of friends.  Those who then decide to add their own opinion opens this comment to all of their friends and so forth.  Now what if this one comment was on a business page or in a public group?  One comment could reach hundreds if not thousands in a matter of 24 hours depending on the rate of interaction, privacy settings of those interacting, and amount of interactions.  It would be recorded in digital space for generations to come, become subject to relativity and could pop up in search engine queries for all to see.

THIS is the power of Social Media.  The same power that could give your business Google Ratings could also have a huge impact on how your community perceives you and your business.  Social Media gives you a vast vehicle to communicate with a variety of online networks and groups of people, so it is important to remember that social media was created for shared conversation.  Conversation inspires communication and with this comes the right to free speech. 

This was clearly demonstrated with the recent up-rise about an online movie going viral that caused violent uprisings in the East.  Now we ask, "Is Free Speech Too High A Price For Peace?".  Read the article, remembering we have privileges in the USA that we should not take lightly.....

Having the ability to interact with consumers and potential clients on a person-to-person basis, it is important to be real and professional but most of all accountable.  Just because you are on Facebook and have a presence, it does not necessarily mean that you are using it and engaging effectively.  Appropriate interaction is an integral part of managing your social media networks effectively and could be the difference between a good or negative perception from clients. You have the power to win or loose potential clients with your actions.

How to communicate effectively:

1. Get off your high horse.
2. A positive outlook can be contagious.
3. Drop the big terms and speak normal English.
4. Be pro-active and make sure others know it.
5. Spread the love and promote your neighbor.
6. Be transparent and involve your audience.

How to avoid misunderstandings:

1. Message private matters instead of posting on your wall.
2. Be considerate and aware of what you post.
3. Don’t mix personal with business.
4. Be visible and comment on comments.
5. Keep it short and sweet.
6. Watch your tone.

Don’t open yourself to confrontations:

1. Only be-‘friend’ people you know.
2. Don’t tag friends in unflattering pictures.
3. Stop oversharing.
4. Don’t vent about work.
5. Don’t re-post ‘chain’ status updates.
6. Don’t spoil it for others with condescending comments.
7. Stay out of controversial conversations.

Please be aware that Facebook is a public platform and that leaves everyone of us vulnerable.  Show others the respect you yourself expect and deserve. Respect the privacy of your friends and others sharing this space with you.  You are NOT invincible and just like we have accountability in real life, we also have accountability that creates perception online.