Almost anyone who owns a computer or a mobile electronic device has had some experience with social media. It is a blessing but if it is not used properly, it can create problems. While using any social media platform, it is important to observe social media manners. Always review before posting. Just as it is in real life, etiquette and good manners are equally important on social media. Some of the current and common social media platforms include; Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Google+. The number of such sites is continually growing as people come up with new ideas on how to connect individuals with common interests. It is important to strike a balance between social media presence and real life' so as to avoid overindulgence. Developing an Online Community While building a community of followers or friends, one should perceive it as a virtual neighborhood where it is possible to invite or accept invitations.' Some sites encourage members to add followers as quickly as possible while others require the individual to know someone first before adding. Always read the terms of service and abide by the set rules. Public Posts Some sites allow the users to set their messages as public or private. One is however never guaranteed of absolute privacy. Some sites may occasionally experience glitches and leak such information to the public. In some cases, even friends may accidentally share the information. Anything that is put in writing has the potential of reaching the public. After setting up an account one may be tempted by common euphoria and post almost anything about himself or her self. This may portray the person as a desperate attention seeker or a drama queen/king. Once people notice this, they may tend to overlook him/her wants even when there is something important to communicate. Photo Tagging and Sharing One of the pleasures of social media is the ability to show others personal photos, pictures of the family or home. With some social media platforms, it is possible to tag such photos with the names of other people who are in the photos. Before tagging anyone, it is always good to ask for permission from the individual. Some people like keeping a low profile and tagging them without notice may embarrass them. This may lead to a strained relationship or may break the friendship. Mean or Slanderous Comments Before posting any comment, it is good to stop and think of how others will perceive it. If the comment may be perceived as a cyber bullying or hurtful, it may not be worth posting. In any case, such posts may even land the individual in trouble. When other people post offensive messages ignore them and if they persist, blocking or removing them from the list of friends may be the best option. Political and Religious Views It is very important to be careful while posting anything about political or religious views. Posting something derogatory about a religion or political view may hurt or anger others resulting in one being slummed with heated posts or even losing friends. Professional Image Before posting a comment on social media, it is important to consider one's professional image. Employers, clients and even business partners often go through a person's social media profile. One careless post might cost the person a job, a promotion or even a business relationship. Most companies consider a role model as someone who is able to show a professional image in all aspects in his/her public life. Observing appropriate social media manners will often result in one living a comfortable life and being in good terms with others. Marcy Breault is the founder of The Protocol and Etiquette School, Maggie Valley, NC. To learn more about protocol and etiquette training and classes visit http://www.theprotocolandetiquetteschool.com/http://www.theprotocolandetiquetteschool.com/
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