DOES SOCIAL MEDIA SPELL THE END OF SOCIAL GRACES?
Communication expert Leslie Shore discusses Social Media Etiquette on Big Blend Radio!
The ‘social graces’ are becoming a thing of the past as users tweet and post opinions and information in the virtual world that they would not likely share in their immediate social circles.
Leslie Shore explores the causes and repercussions of poor social media etiquette and offers these 5 reminders for avoiding its pitfalls:
- Don’t respond to a post or comment out of emotion. Take time to process what you have read or seen and allow yourself time to reflect on your thoughts before commenting out of anger or frustration. Remember that everyone is entitled to their own opinions.
- Remember who your ‘friends’ are. Before sharing your thoughts on politics or religion, or posting something provocative or controversial, keep in mind who your audience is. Is it worth creating tension with your family, friends, coworkers, etc.?
- Keep your personal conversations personal. There is no need to take your private life public. Tweeting your boyfriend you love him or telling your sister how angry you are on Facebook will only open up dialogue to those who have no need for involvement.
- Stay truly connected to those who matter. Don’t wish your family a happy birthday on Facebook; pick up the phone or make the trip to see them. Instead of sending invites, thank you’s, and holiday cards online, send your loved ones something they can keep forever.
- Don’t brag. No one likes a bragasaurus in person, so why would they ‘like’ one on social media. It’s fine to tell folks what you’re doing and share good news, but if it turns into a brag-fest, you will be un-liked, un-linked, and un-followed!
National speaker, communication expert, professor, and author Leslie Shore is the one-stop shop for communication issues that affect the bedroom to the boardroom, family and team dynamics, and contemporary communication issues. Leslie is the owner of Listen to Succeed, a consultancy that focuses on using listening analytics to help clients achieve their highest level of effective communication. Her book “Listen to Succeed: How to Identify and Overcome Barriers to Effective Listening,” is used in universities, businesses, and non-profits throughout the United States and Canada. Learn more at www.ListenToSucceed.com.
