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- December 6, 2008
Social Networking & Your Business Image
I just read an interesting blog post that I thought was worth discussing here.
Basically, the writer questioned whether or not the words we use in conversing with others online through social networks hurts our image.
During the presidential election, I read many hateful posts from people I thought I liked and I must admit it made me think of them differently. I actually stopped following several people on Twitter as a result. But the political election is now over. Can you mend fences or do you just decide not to have anything further to do with them?
And what about other issues? Do you think twice before you post a controversial topic or do you do it just to see how others will react?
When someone uses ALL CAPS in a post, do you think they’re shouting at you–or just trying to make a point?
If you read a post that offends you, do you take the time to contact the person directly before jumping the gun and spouting off your own offensive remarks?
As women in business, we must be conscious of the fact that we may be judged for our socialism as well as our professionalism.
If someone were doing a check of your social manners, what grade would you receive?
A–I never offend anyone and am always sweet and kind online
B–I am never offensive. I just don’t respond to posts I don’t agree with.
C–I am hardly ever offensive but on occasion I might have to put someone in their place if I disagree with them. I do make it a point to be kind in my response.
D–If someone posts something I don’t agree with, I let them know and I’m not always nice about it.
F–If someone posts something I don’t like, I let them know and I’m not nice about it. Ignorant people have no business on the social networks and I have no problem telling them. Hopefully they’ll see the error of their ways or just leave the site.
8 Responses to “Social Networking & Your Business Image”
I consider if I’m online then I’m always on show, but that applies being out in the public anywhere too. I believe it’s always best to behave in the way you would want others to know you for. I hate having public arguments (or private ones for that matter) but if I disagree with someone and feel I need to put my case forward, I do it as professionally as possible. I certainly don’t resort to bad language, name calling or anything of that nature.
By Kathie M. Thomas on Dec 6, 2008
You can’t agree with everyone on everything. Can’t please everyone. Politics and religion are very touchy subjects. We can do business with those who believe differently.
A lot of the problems come when we attack a person for their beliefs or they think we are doing so.
Kathy makes some good points, whatever you post, your future clients, boss, etc may be reading, before you click send are you sure this is something you want public?
By Heidi Caswell on Dec 6, 2008
I feel that posting on the internet should be like going out for the evening. Always “look” your best. And yes, “do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”
While the internet is a fascinating media and truly a blessing, it is also a way to be easily misunderstood. Posts should be proofed, should at all times be respectful, and if that can’t be accomplished, a private message should be sent. Even then, respect is the key word.
By Debra Shiveley welch on Dec 7, 2008
Although I have a blog, I haven’t as yet, gotten into social networking sites like Twitter. However, when I post on my blog, I do try to make my writing non-offensive and socially acceptable.
On the other hand, I don’t want to lose my personality. I enjoy humor and making people laugh. So, at times, I may have inadvertently offended. You’re right, the Internet can really bring about some unique questions and problems. A little different than whispering secrets into your best girlfriend’s ear in the fifth grade!
By Eileen Williams on Dec 7, 2008
I always consider the fact that what I say online is available to millions – who may or may not know me and could make a judgement about me based solely on what they read. So I try not to be to blunt, personal, or controversial unless it is something I feel very strongly about. Which is why you’ll notice I very rarely get involved in political or religious discussions. Too personal and far too easy to lose control!
I also suggest you think about the networks you participate in. Some of them carry a reputation of their own which may be totally undeserved (or not). But remember the old saying – you are judged by the company you keep?
By Melodieann Whiteley on Dec 7, 2008
Great post in your own right, Bev. I’d have to say that I’m a C on your scale. There are some things that will push my buttons, such as racist remarks, and other things that I’ll just let go. When people were sending lots of hateful stuff around and challenging Obama’s legitimacy to being an American, I found my own clip challenging the legacy of McCain and announced it on Twitter. But I let a heck of a lot of stuff go before I did it.
Overall, though, I am what I am, and luckily that means I’m never intentionally offensive to anyone. Thanks for connecting with me and my blog post.
By Mitch on Dec 7, 2008
I’m like Mitch–some stuff pushes my buttons, but I usually only respond to it when it’s a network, not a person’s blog. To me, my blog is like my living room: I expect people to be respectful. That was not always the case during the election, and it shocked me.
By ByJane on Dec 10, 2008
Give me a “B.” I would ask for an “A,” but I must consider that not everyone would agree that I am “sweet and kind.” My thought is, that it’s too easy to upset a person’s applecart and cause drama, even if it is completely unintended.
I totally agree with Melodieann’s comments! Well Done, Beverly & Melodieann!
By Teri Dempski on Dec 18, 2008