Social media sites have become an integral part of how we communicate with our peers. The value they have added to networking, relationship-building and entertainment is indisputable. However, there are some things you should avoid posting on social media that may lead to negative consequences.
1. Private or Classified Information
If someone shares information with that is clearly of a private or confidential nature then do not post that information on any public forum.
Be careful to make sure than anything you post about is okay for the general public to read.
2. Personal Conversations
This follows on from the previous point of not sharing private information. Personal conversations should not take place anywhere that other people might be able to read them. These conversations might be benign and boring but that doesn't change the fact that other social media users do not want to see them.
In the worst case scenario your conversation is filled with gossip or airs dirty laundry. This is a problem because it can lead to trust issues and a reputation as a blabbermouth.
3. Embarrassing Pictures
This includes both embarrassing pictures of yourself and others. It would be perceived as rude to embarrass others in real life, so why not avoid doing this online too?
The most important thing to remember is that everything you do online can impact your reputation and the reputation of others. Do not let something you post online become an embarrassment.
4. Negative Opinions About Your Job
Badmouthing anyone on social media is not going to end well but it can be particularly worse if you badmouth your employer, colleagues or clients. That is because it could lead to you losing your job.
Keep your opinions to yourself and remain professional on social media.
5. Inappropriate Photos or Videos
I’m just going to come out and say it – don’t post or send images of yourself in a compromised state of dress online. If these images reach your friends or employer they could seriously damage your reputation.
Remember to speak with your teenage children, who are using social media, about this too. The choices made at that age can come back to haunt you later in life.
6. Too Much Information (TMI)
There are certain personal, unpleasant and intimate conversations that we tend to avoid having with anyone but the closest of friends. These same topics should be avoided on social media as well. Social media should not be viewed as an avenue for ‘grossing out’ your friends or sharing details of your love life.
So ask yourself before posting, is this post too much information? Will posting this negatively impact how other people view me online? Remember that it is harder to communicate intended meaning online and a lot of comments can be misconstrued.
7. Financial Status or Bragging
Nobody likes a show-off and bragging online is a quick way to lose friends or followers online. Boasting about the big bonus you just received at work is an inappropriate way to behave whether you are online or offline. That is not to say you can’t celebrate success though. Perhaps a better way to celebrate would be a post about the great day at work you had having received recognition from your boss for your hard work.
If in doubt, eat a slice of humble pie and tone your post down on the bragging.
8. Drinking or Drug Use Photos
This seems like a fairly obvious piece of advice but I wouldn't feel right talking about what not to post if I didn't mention this. Pictures of yourself drinking heavily or doing drugs should not be posted online. Employers, potential clients, friends and colleagues will see these and not respect you as a professional. Now, I’m not saying you shouldn't be seen holding a glass of wine at dinner – that is perfectly acceptable for social media. Use your judgement. If you appear undignified or irresponsible then it is probably best to avoid posting the image.
To make an even more obvious point – do not post images of yourself participating in any illegal activities online. Once it’s on the internet, it’s there forever.
9. Relationship Issues
Is there anything worse than seeing a couple have a public argument online? Whilst this might be entertaining for others, do not let this be you.
You will inevitably regret being so public about the issues you had once they blow over. You may also find that your followers or friends have misjudged you as a result of this behaviour. Respect your partner and refrain from badmouthing them online.
10. Personal Contact Information
Businesses and brands need to post all contact information online but you do not need to do this personally. The internet is not a secure place and individuals should avoid sharing their address, phone number and email address if possible. The most important of these is your home address.
If you want to post contact information then ensure your security settings are at a level which you are comfortable with. You can make it so that only your friends can see your contact details instead of the general public.
So remember, your reputation online can have big ramifications on your life. If you take a common sense approach to what you share then social media could be very lucrative for you.
