Social Media's Slippery Slope
The new issue of 1to1 Magazine features a story by Jeremy Nedelka about how companies can learn more about their prospects and customers by checking out social media sites like LinkedIn and Facebook. I think these sites are great for networking and connecting with friends, but there is a line that needs to be drawn between personal and professional information. What's the etiquette?
Some people are very open about their lives and post lots of juicy details, pictures, and updates about what's happening. But some information meant for friends and family may wind up available to business contacts as well. As a business contact who sees something personal, should you act on it?
I try not to mix personal and professional life, but with search engine optimization, Facebook apps and new LinkedIn tools, it's getting more difficult. I heard that Facebook has a new feature that allows you to segment different types of friends, so you can control who sees what. But like the rest of the new Facebook site, it's hard to find and confusing.
If someone's profile changes from married to divorced, or if they change a status update to alert friends of a family crisis, it's tough to know if as a business connection you should mention it. I guess it depends on how well you know the person, or if it's something that might be relevant to the business relationship. It's a fine line, but as Jeremy's 1to1 Magazine article shows, knowing a little more about a prospect or customer can help deepen the relationship...if done correctly.
Have you had any good or bad experiences with social media information? Does anyone have some good recommendations?
Related Entries
- Taking a Proactive Approach to Social Media Complaints
- What Are Your Secrets to Social Service Success?
- Mastering the Medium of the Day
