Etiquette Rules for Social Networking

Research indicates that over 51% of online users have joined a social network, while 73% are consuming some form of social content on a regular basis. There are hundreds of social networking sites but the most widely used by adults are Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn. It is up to you to determine why you want to join and how you will use the website effectively.

Do you want to use it personally or professionally?

Professionally: In business we use social networking sites to stay in contact with and maintain a list of people we know in business. The sites can also help us build our careers, and promote our businesses as well. Personally: Social network websites are used as an outlet to share almost anything from your every move, to photos, recipes, and any other personal information you want to share.

Here’s a list of etiquette tips for social networking aimed at the polished professional.

First, refrain from using the same social network for personal and professional use. Set up two different profiles or accounts for these connections. Create a section on your main profile detailing whom you are seeking to befriend.

Complete your profile with accurate information about you and your business. Use your real name and your own photo. Pick a screen name that represents you and your company well. Don’t call yourself “Lovebug” unless you want to be known by that name, and your pet may be adorable, but unless you specializing in pet care, use your own photo.

Offer information of value. Refrain from just talking about yourself and your company. Succinctly write interesting and timely information that will be of benefit to others.

Do not approach strangers and ask them to be friends in order to try to sell them on your ideas, products or services. You will quickly lose credibility.

Don’t send out requests for invitations to play online games, take personality tests, or other timewasters for those using the site.

Avoid putting anything on the Internet that you don’t want your boss, future boss, current client or potential clients to read.

If someone does not want to be your friend, accept it gracefully. They have the right to make that decision and you must accept it.

Never post when you are exhausted, inebriated, jet-lagged, angry or upset.

Do not over-post or over tweet. Your audience will become very tired of you and your information may not be taken seriously and perhaps will even be skipped over.

Social networking gives you a voice to your audience and ears to hear what they have to say to you, …. And the beautiful part is - you can do all this at your convenience! Remember: Being professional is key!

And as we say on Twitter … Always Tweet others the way you want to be Tweeted!

Joy Weaver is president of Protocol Enterprises, Inc., and specializes in corporate and social etiquette training. Ms. Weaver develops and teaches programs that lead to business and social success. She conducts classes for major corporations, nonprofit and civic organizations, as well as individuals. Ms. Weaver is also the author of the book, Just Ask Joy...How to be Socially Savvy in All Situations. For more information visit her website at www.justaskjoy.com