What Etiquette Professionals Want You to Know About Social Media

According to Smart Insights, 47% of the world population and 75% of the United States population use one or more social media sites.  Don’t let an inappropriate post or tweet cost you a college scholarship, relationship, or dream job. The American Association of Etiquette Professionals want you to consider the following before you go online:

For individuals:

1. Remember that the person you are with takes precedent over your phone.  You control your phone – don’t let it control you.
2. Before sharing any information on line, ask yourself a few questions –
   1. Why am posting this?  Use the acronym THINK!
      Is it TRUE?  Is it HURTFUL?  Is it ILLEGAL? Is it NECESSARY? Is it KIND?
   2. Is this something my grandmother would think is appropriate?
   3. Do I have permission to post or forward this photo?
   4. Will this post/photo sound mean, insulting, angry, bullying, or embarrassing to someone?
   5. Is it my news to share?
3. When taking selfies:
   1. Always respect any “no pictures” signs or requests.
   2. Avoid using a flash when it may bother others.
   3. Don’t obstruct sidewalks or walkways or views of the stage, etc.
   4. When using a selfie stick, safety first.  Keep them vertical as to not hit anyone with it.
4. Keep your passwords private.
5. Do not meet with someone you met on line by yourself.  If you MUST meet, take someone with you and meet in public.
6. Don’t measure your own value on what others post.

For Business:

1. Each time you post on social media, you are making a first impression with someone.  Make sure it is positive.
2. A polished online presence is like small talk – if you appear friendly and approachable, your network will grow.
3. Know the general purpose of the network you are posting on and keep your posts appropriate.
4. Be polite and respectful.
5. Credit others when providing a link or quoting a source.
6. Be clear and check your spelling.

There are plenty of good things about social media, but also many risks.  Carefully consider every post and tweet you make to be sure you are making the best impression you can. 

Contributors: Arden Clise, Tina Hayes, Kathleen Joiner, Christy Porter, Kaye Simonetta, Candace Smith, Renee Swindell, Joanna Kunz and Dr.Patricia Tice