Five simple ways to be responsible on social media
You share a lot on social media, but who are you sharing it with? It’s important to be careful on social media because you never know where your post is going to end up or who is going to read it. Are you sharing the details of your life with your family, friends, and co-workers or with perfect strangers? Here are some tips to help you remain conscious of where and what you’re posting on social media platforms.
1. Keep separate accounts for friends and co-workers
While some people like to keep one account for everything because it’s easier to keep track of, we all have to remain aware of our digital footprint.
Creating a private account for friends and family keeps strangers and co-workers from seeing your private posts or embarrassing childhood photographs.
Creating an account for work allows you to make connections and build a network while showcasing a professional persona that will impress current and future bosses and co-workers.
2. Choose who can see certain posts
On certain online platforms, such as Facebook, you can choose who can see what you post. Before posting content you can choose to share things privately, publicly, or with friends.
For example, if it is a personal photo that you want to keep within your group of family and friends then choose “friends.”
Similarly, if you have something you want to share with the public—like promoting a friend’s band—then choose “public.”
3. Check your privacy settings
When creating an account on a social media platform some people forget to check their privacy options. For example, checking if your account will display your contact information or full name.
Be especially careful if the platform you’re using doesn’t give you that level of privacy. If it allows you the option to leave out or hide your full name, contact details, or other personal information then choose that option.
4. Voice your opinions carefully
Sharing strong or controversial opinions on your government, foreign politics, or business may be perceived as blunt or cruel. Such statements could also catch the attention of people who aren’t interested in a friendly debate. Your words could also be taken out of context and used against you despite the fact that you meant no harm.
5. Do not share your location
Sharing details about where we live, even if it’s a simple comment, leaves us as easy targets for those who may not have the best intentions.
Never post information about where you are and when you’re there. Letting the world know that you’re on vacation for two weeks could leave your home vulnerable while you’re away.
Using social media provides us all with a great platform to voice our thoughts and connect with each other. However, it’s important to use social media responsibly so that the things we post don’t hurt us now or haunt us in the future.Please post responsibly.
Illustration courtesy of Gerardo Obieta via CC BY 2.0.