4 tips for a professional social media presence

Social media is an essential communications channel, but it comes with its own set of best practices and rules of engagement. Follow these guidelines to stay cordial and professional online.

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Bad manners are everywhere—and these days it seems they’re most often on display on social media.

More than the mean fake news, election tampering, newsjacking and all the other ways companies, countries, and politicians try to manipulate online, there’s also bad behavior exhibited by friends and connections.

Sure, there’s a time for photos of you enjoying a drink with friends, or a photo of the meal you just cooked, or for that gym check-in. There may even be a time to post political messages, 75 photos of your vacation, Bible verses—even information about the latest Botox special. However, that time should not be every day.

Don’t be “that” person. Consider the following tips before you post:

1. Don’t over-share.

Though you are sharing with your friends, no one wants to know the minute details of your life. Before you post something, ask yourself whether you would talk about the content of your post at a crowded cocktail party.

2. Treat LinkedIn connections carefully.

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