Wednesday, November 17, 2010

Avoiding Social Networking

For a while, I have avoided social networking.  It hasn't been purposeful, but more out of necessity.  Social networking has dominated my time and I have to learn to limit myself especially when more important matters should take priority.  But while I am not avoiding it entirely, I would like to offer my thoughts on social networking:

  • Be careful what you post! - Employers are now searching Facebook, Twitter, and blogs when hiring.  So be careful what you post, even though it may be in jest!
  • Too much info. - There is so much information available on your profile pages.  You must be careful what information is for public view and what information is private.
  • Don't post when you are angry. - There are have been several times I wanted to blog on something that I was angered about.  Or there have been times where I have viewed other people vent too much information because of what they were involved in.  You can express your frustration, but do so constructively and without names (implied or otherwise).
  • Your tweet, blog post, Facebook comment is a reflection on you! - I have admittedly gotten "called on" a comment I posted.  I did not think anything of it at the time, but it was clear that my comments angered and offended someone.  Instead of admitting I was wrong, I tried to justify and explain why.  I am analytical and I try to reason, at times, my actions.  The relationship was broken and it probably did not need to be, but I believe I was at fault.
What are your thought on social networking?  Has it dominated your life?  What mistakes have you made?