If you're old enough, you'll remember the old commercial that encouraged us to "Call up and just say, 'Hi!'" The Bell Telephone campaign, which began in the 70's, promoted enhancing the bond between friends and family. "Wherever you are, you're never too far..." It's okay to sing along with me if you remember the words because I'm ready for a big finish.
Today, we live in an age where you can reach out to not just friends and family, but to people who might have been considered "unreachable" forty years ago. A variety of social media platforms give us access to our old elementary school acquaintances, celebrities, and even the President of the United States.
It's amazing...but it's also a little scary. Remember, if you can access them, they can access you, too. Posts about politics, a night out boozing it up with friends, or where you're going on your next vacation can put you in a vulnerable position. It's easy to get caught up in the need for feedback and "over-share" the last fight you had with your spouse or how cute your new boss is, but those types of social media posts are always out there and accessible to the prying eyes of your mother- in-law...or your boss...or your boss's mother-in-law...
Is that hilariously dirty joke appropriate for my delicate Aunt Rubye? Does my City Council representative really need to know about my nagging itch? Are my neighbors going to drop in when they find out I made tacos for dinner? (My neighbors already know I make extra just in case...)
Taking a moment to consider the consequences before you hit "post" can save you (and your delicate aunt) a lot of grief down the road. Some things are better shared in person and without a written record. And sometimes, the best way to reach out and touch someone is by actually being close enough to touch them.
If you need advice on keeping your reputation spotless on social media, scroll up to the top of the page and hit "Contact" to reach out and get in touch with me!
Today, we live in an age where you can reach out to not just friends and family, but to people who might have been considered "unreachable" forty years ago. A variety of social media platforms give us access to our old elementary school acquaintances, celebrities, and even the President of the United States.
It's amazing...but it's also a little scary. Remember, if you can access them, they can access you, too. Posts about politics, a night out boozing it up with friends, or where you're going on your next vacation can put you in a vulnerable position. It's easy to get caught up in the need for feedback and "over-share" the last fight you had with your spouse or how cute your new boss is, but those types of social media posts are always out there and accessible to the prying eyes of your mother- in-law...or your boss...or your boss's mother-in-law...
Is that hilariously dirty joke appropriate for my delicate Aunt Rubye? Does my City Council representative really need to know about my nagging itch? Are my neighbors going to drop in when they find out I made tacos for dinner? (My neighbors already know I make extra just in case...)
Taking a moment to consider the consequences before you hit "post" can save you (and your delicate aunt) a lot of grief down the road. Some things are better shared in person and without a written record. And sometimes, the best way to reach out and touch someone is by actually being close enough to touch them.
If you need advice on keeping your reputation spotless on social media, scroll up to the top of the page and hit "Contact" to reach out and get in touch with me!