You would think that by now most people would have learned the dos and don’ts of using social media in business. Certainly some are more careful than others in managing messaging, but there are still plenty of people who seem clueless about communicating effectively on Twitter, Facebook, and .
In the last few weeks I personally witnessed each faux pas listed and am sharing below remedies to fix each one. Next time you experience an error, help the offender by sending him or her this column. Perhaps you’ll inspire them to stop annoying other people and doing damage to their own reputations.
More blunders featured in theMarketingblog
1. Your Picture Sends the Wrong Message About You
If a picture says 1,000 words, make sure it’s the 1,000 words you really want to convey. You don’t have to use the same profile picture for Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn, just present photos consistent with your . The wrong picture can scare off potential clients, employers, and connections while tasteful, clever pictures make you memorable for the right reasons. Not everyone needs a professional portrait or serious face in a business suit. Give your selection some thought and care, so it’s not blurry or weird. (Unless of course it makes good business sense to intentionally convey your weirdness.) Your picture should show your personality and project happiness and success. If you can’t be creative, at least be neutral.
2. Your Profile Looks Like You’re Unhappy and Job Hunting
The words “Looking for…” say you’re dissatisfied with life. Not the message to convey to colleagues, bosses, or clients. Have a profile that shows you as the secure, productive, and directed person people want to hire. If you are not engaged or interesting, then stop spending so much time on social media and go do interesting things worthy of sharing.