With all of the chatter about social networking infiltrating our computers, televisions, radios, newspapers and minds, it’s about time that someone brought up the etiquette issue.
Upon reading this article by Beverly Weinstein, I recalled a recent debate I had with a friend regarding the blurring of the lines between the use of social networking for social purposes, as its name insinuates, or for professional purposes. Is it really appropriate to engage potential customers on the same platform you just posted pictures from this weekend’s wedding?
As Weinstein points out, “the core goal [of social networking sites] is friendly and mutually beneficial interaction.” Approaching a social networking contact (i.e. “friend,” “fan,” or “follower”) with a business proposition should be very similar to how you would approach a contact in real life. Don’t let the interwebs allow you to misperceive the closeness of your relationship.
At the same time, if you happen upon a business opportunity because of a relationship you have with someone via a social networking site, do not allow the fact that cyberspace stands between you to cause hesitation in asking for an opportunity to obtain the business.
As with any new technology, many of us are still learning what is appropriate behavior for social networking sites. However, if you are on social networking sites for professional purposes, it’s safe to abide by the same rules you would in traditional networking interactions.
Tags: Beverly Weinstein, netiquette, Social Media, social networking, traditional networking