I would like to welcome Russel Cooke to NAG today. He is here to share a guest post and an infographic about social media etiquette. I have had somethings along these lines going on in my head for a time and this will also give my colleague Rachel Thompson a break too. Anyway– Enjoy!

Minding your manners is just as important as your mother always told you. When it comes to the world of online interaction, etiquette still counts – just maybe not quite in the same way that you were told as a child.

Respecting the Basics

It’s important to respect that interactions via social media occur at a remove from typical face-to-face or even voice-to-voice interaction. Because of this aspect of social media, abide by a basic framework of rules with your online communication.

Ever had a conversation via text go awry when one or both people involved got confused by what was said? The same thing can happen on social media. Make your intentions clear by using the proper netiquette.

Be natural, polite and prompt. Don’t inundate your social media interactions with emoticons, CAPS,  improper grammar, or robotic language. Rather, mind your tone – and your manners! – on social media and treat each message or post as you would a conversation with a friend.

Be Appropriate

Just as you wouldn’t want to talk to your friends in a movie theatre, you don’t want to misuse social media platforms. Be aware of the format of each of your social media outlets:

• Facebook – Facebook is a great place to share pictures, ask questions, and comment on industry news or trends. Don’t be afraid to get social and invoke fun on your Facebook page.
• Twitter – Due to its short form, Twitter is best for quick messages, perhaps in metered succession. Directly tweet at followers as well as thought leaders – answer questions from your clients and ask your own.
• Instagram – Instagram is a quick and attractive way to share snapshots and tell a story. Stagger your posts so that your followers aren’t inundated with photographs solely from your profile.
• LinkedIn – Because LinkedIn is a forum intended for business professionals, keep your communications crisp and formal.

There’s no such thing as being too polite. Check out this infographic on more ways to use netiquette on social media.

About the Author:

Russel Cooke is a business consultant and writer who lives in Los Angeles, CA. Follow him on Twitter @RusselCooke2.