I have always steered clear of social networking sites in my personal life. Yes, they’re fun and make it easy to stay connected with friends and family but I never had the time or the inclination. Surely I’m not the only one who enjoys having some anonymity from people I went to school with and more than a few family members. If I want to say happy birthday to Aunt Opal, I’ll give her a call and if I’m taking a bathroom break, I’d prefer to keep that to myself. Witnessing my children spending more time on facebook, posting about every move they make in a given day, than doing their homework only solidifies my feelings. What ever happened to having a private life?
In my industry, as with most, using social networking for business is a must. It’s not only free advertising but it has many other benefits such as; SEO for your website, keeping your image current, getting feedback from your customers and an it’s an easy way to reach your target demographic.
Strangely enough, the job of posting and tweeting fell into my lap. Being a bit of a newbie, I combed the Internet trying to find the appropriate ways to use these sites to properly endorse the business. What I found was enough articles about social networking etiquette to make Miss Manners’ head spin. We were always told not to mix business with pleasure but when using sites like facebook and twitter for business, it is exactly what you do. All business, you’re boring and self-serving. Too many personal comments, especially about taboo subjects like politics or religion, you’re unprofessional and can turn potential “fans” away. Just ask the Dixie Chicks.
So as I trudge through unfamiliar territory trying to promote the business without being overly promotional, post regularly without over-posting, being engaging without being too personal and joining others pages and groups but only relevant ones, please forgive me if I make a few faux pas.
The bottom line is before using social networking sites for business, do your research. In an arena with this many gray areas, it’s inevitable you’ll make a few missteps. You just don’t want them to be so big that they can do real damage to you or your company’s professional reputation. Nobody wants to be considered a seagull, pelican or a vulture.
