Social media not only changes the way we market, but it also changes our behaviors. Have you noticed how many people use Instagram stories of their locations or take photos of their food before eating? What about how many people talk into their screens for FaceTime or talk to you with AirPods in? Social media is officially an everyday accessory.
The big question is, what social media behaviors are deemed acceptable in today’s society? Here are some social media dos and don’ts for your everyday life:
DO: Understand each platform’s best practices. Every platform has nuances that are different from others. For example, Facebook is perfect for longer posts and connecting with family and groups. Instagram is better for high-quality pictures and stories. Twitter is best for quick updates and humorous gifs.
DON’T: Bully or be inappropriate. No one likes a negative nelly or a rude ruby. Respect others and they will respect you. Also, always remember this phrase from the Disney movie, Bambi, “if you can’t say something nice, don’t say nothing at all”
DO: Post what makes you happy. Social media is a reflection of you. If you are happy with what goes out, who cares what others say about it.
DON’T: Put anything on social media that could jeopardize your career or family. What goes on social media stays out in the world FOREVER. No matter if you deleted it; someone could have screenshot it or saved it. Always err on the side of caution if you are posting something that could hurt someone else or yourself.
DO: Ask before you post. If you have a picture with someone you would like to post, ask their permission before you post it. A person’s privacy is their privacy. Asking is always better than guessing if they are okay with it.
DON’T: Be on your phone throughout an entire meal or event. Socialize with those around you rather than the world within your device. Soak in the little moments, and I promise the world is great beyond the screen!
DO: Use hashtags thoughtfully. Using hashtags to connect with others or push your branded posts out are great. However, do not put a hashtag in every other word of a sentence. It makes it seem clunky and difficult to read.
DON’T: Over Post. Posting a few posts a day is great, but one every other hour? Not so much. Keep it simple and your friends and fans will like that better.
