essay about social media etiquette

How to Write a Social Media Essay

As a current student, it’s almost guaranteed you use social media in some way. It’s also quite likely you’ll write a social media essay at some point in your academic career. If you’re wondering how to write a social media essay, read on—this guide will walk you through just about everything you need to know to write an impactful social media essay.

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What is a social media essay?

A social media essay is an essay that discusses social media, its uses, its impacts, and/or users’ experiences. Social media essays can fit into just about any type of writing, and they may be researched academic pieces or thoughtful personal essays.

In today’s world, social media is ubiquitous. Think about the role social media plays in your life—maybe it’s where you connect with friends, how you found your job, where you showcase your hobbies and skills, or how you keep in touch with extended family. Social media, for better or for worse, has changed our social, economic, cultural, and political landscapes.

This is exactly why social media essays are relevant. Unlike an essay about a novel or poem that’s hundreds of years old, writing a social media essay is a way to contribute to the current zeitgeist. You’re adding to the growing body of social media scholarship, potentially creating a primary source that future students and scholars will study to learn about social media from this particular period.

Social media essay topics

Social media essay topics can include anything involving social media. Here are a few examples of strong social media essay topics:

• Social media and society
• Analyzing social media impact
• Comparing social media platforms
• Digital communication analysis
• Social media marketing case studies
• Social media’s influence on youth

When you’re planning a social media essay, it can be helpful to brainstorm broad topics, then narrow them down to find a strong thesis statement and engaging title . If you’re writing a social media essay for an assignment, plan its topic in accordance with the assignment—your instructor might ask you to write a compare-and-contrast or argumentative essay, for example.

Another way to determine a strong topic for your essay is to read existing social media essays. Other essays can inspire you by introducing a subject you’d like to explore further or by showing you where a gap in published work exists, giving you an opportunity to fill that gap.

Social media research

With a clear topic, the next step in writing a social media essay is conducting research. Social media platforms can be credible sources in this subject area—after all, if you’re writing about Instagram engagement, you need to cite relevant content.

Good social media research techniques are the same as good research techniques for any other kind of essay. Choose sources that are credible, such as those published in academic journals. It is also important to consult a variety of sources, including those that don’t support, and may even contradict, your thesis statement. This is how you develop an objective view of your essay’s subject and effectively support your position .

One thing that can make researching for a social media essay challenging is a lack of academic sources. The first social media platform, SixDegrees, launched in 1997. However, social media really didn’t become widespread until roughly 20 years ago, once Myspace and Friendster came on the scene. Even then, platforms that are still operational today, such as Facebook, came later. So, while social media has been in existence for more than 25 years, it’s only been a widespread thing and subject of academic discourse for the past couple of decades. That means the body of scholarship regarding social media is much smaller than the body of scholarship for other subjects, which can make it more challenging for you to find appropriate sources to research and cite.

The upside to this is that the bulk of academic sources about social media are relatively recent, so you’re less likely to encounter theories that have been debunked or significantly outdated statistics. That said, a good general guideline to follow for every essay is to use the most up-to-date sources available.

Here’s a tip:  Grammarly offers a variety of  AI writing tools  to help you develop ideas for your writing task.  Brainstorm  ideas for a paper or assignment, generate ideas for a  thesis statement ,  summarize  complex passages, and more.

Essay structure

Structurally, a social media essay is no different from any other essay. It starts with an outline . From this outline, the essay starts with an introduction, which states its thesis. Then, the essay supports its thesis with relevant sources in body paragraphs. It finishes with a conclusion section, often just one paragraph, that summarizes the essay’s topic and revisits the thesis statement.

Because social media is so pervasive, social media essays can fit any essay type. For example, you might write an analytical essay discussing two or more pieces of discourse regarding social media use, or you might write a personal essay discussing how your relationship with social media has evolved over the past decade.

Unless your instructor requires your essay to have a certain word count or fit a certain structure, you usually have some room to play with both of these. A coherent flow of ideas, as well as data from credible sources that support your thesis statement, is a far bigger part of writing a strong essay than hitting a certain number of words. Clear flow makes your essay easy to read and understand, which makes your thesis statement impactful.

Analyze social media impact

Analyzing social media impact is a topic you can discuss in numerous directions. However, it can also be challenging because finding unbiased sources on social media is not always easy. This is especially true when you’re writing about topics like personal relationships, education, and politics.

Critical social media studies, like case studies and comparative analyses, are the right sources to consult when analyzing social media impact—not your friends’ profiles.

Incorporate statistics and data

Relevant statistics and data are important in any academic essay. In a social media essay, statistics and data are often used to demonstrate the scope of the topic being discussed. For example, in an essay about the growth of TikTok during the COVID-19 pandemic, account creation statistics support your claim. Similarly, data from reputable sources, like academic digital communication analysis, underscores your position’s academic merit.

Balance personal insight and academic rigor

Your essay might call for personal insights, or it might not. Whether personal insights are relevant to your essay depends on the type of essay you’re writing.

If you’re writing an analytical, expository, or argumentative essay, don’t include personal anecdotes. The purpose of these kinds of essays is to examine sources objectively and reach logical positions and understanding.

In contrast, if you’re writing a personal essay, a synthesis essay , or in some cases, a political essay or a compare-and-contrast essay, personal anecdotes are a key part of compelling writing. A personal essay is just that: personal. Readers expect to read your original thoughts and insights in this kind of essay. If your essay includes personal insights, be sure to state them in the same manner you use for insights from academic sources. This shows that your insights are more than just opinions; they’re logically sound, data-supported observations.

Essay conclusion

The final section of your essay, its conclusion, summarizes the preceding sections and ends your work with a final thought. This final thought can be a straightforward reiteration of the thesis statement or an additional insight that encourages the reader to continue researching the topic.

Polish your essay

After you’ve written your first draft, take some time to let the essay “cool off.” Instead of diving right into editing your fresh first draft, focus on other things, like assignments for other courses or household tasks. By giving yourself time between writing and editing your essay, you’re making it easier to catch awkward sentences, punctuation mistakes, logical fallacies, and places where your writing can flow better.

Grammarly can be a great help in catching spelling mistakes, grammar mistakes, awkward sentences, and inconsistent tones . It can also catch typos and plagiarism, and help you cite sources . Don’t rely on Grammarly to do all your editing, though—Grammarly can make suggestions, but then it’s your job to polish your writing into a final draft.

Social media essay FAQs

A social media essay is an essay that discusses social media in some capacity. It could be about social media use in certain populations, effective social media strategies for businesses, your personal experience with social media, or any other related topic.

How do I ensure my social media essay is unbiased and objective?

Consult a variety of sources in your research, including sources that don’t support your thesis statement. By familiarizing yourself with opposing and contradictory perspectives, you will develop a more nuanced view of your topic and be able to discuss it objectively effectively.

Can I use social media posts as references in my essay?

In many instances, yes. If one or more social media posts support your essay’s position, absolutely cite them as sources.

How can I make my social media essay stand out?

To make your social media essay stand out, contribute something original to the existing body of scholarship surrounding social media. Come up with a fresh perspective or a unique idea, then explore it in your writing.

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Aug. 31, 2023

9 Rules of Social Media Etiquette You Should Follow

Social media is no longer just a playground for personal connections—it’s also a critical space for professional interactions. But the line between successful online engagement and a digital faux pas is often drawn by something quite simple: etiquette. 

This isn’t about adhering to a rigid set of outdated rules—it’s about understanding the norms that guide online behavior. Whether you’re connecting with friends or working in social media marketing, these nine universal social media rules will help you navigate the digital landscape with ease. 

In this article:

1. Be respectful 2. Mind the frequency of your posts 3. Avoid oversharing personal information 4. Shorten your links before sharing them 5. Focus on constructive and positive interactions 6. Refrain from engaging with instigators 7. Respect each platform’s norms 8. Tag and use hashtags wisely 9. Be selective in your posts and prioritize meaningful content

1. Be respectful

Let’s start with the golden rule of any interaction, whether online or offline: respect. In the rapid-fire world of social media, where opinions clash and keyboards can sizzle, maintaining respect might seem challenging. But it’s worth the effort.

Being disrespectful on social media is like shouting in a crowded room—it’s not only rude, but often counterproductive. It can lead to misunderstandings, heated arguments, and damaged relationships. 

Whether you’re a brand trying to reach out to potential customers or an individual connecting with friends, a disrespectful tone can tarnish your image and undermine your goals.

On the flip side, being respectful opens doors. It builds trust, fosters positive engagement, and encourages meaningful connections. When you approach social media with courtesy and consideration, you’re laying the groundwork for fruitful interactions. 

Just as you would hold the door for someone in person, leaving space for differing opinions and being gracious in your online conversations can make all the difference.

2. Mind the frequency of your posts

We all have that friend or influencer who floods our feed with posts, turning a delightful stream of content into a never-ending deluge. 

Posting too much on social media is a bit like talking non-stop in a conversation. It drowns out others and can lead to annoyance or even the dreaded “unfollow.” Finding a balance in your posting frequency ensures that your audience stays engaged—without feeling overwhelmed.

Best practices for posting frequency vary depending on the platform and your audience’s preferences. Some might appreciate daily updates, while others might prefer a more curated selection a few times a week. 

Tools like Bitly’s Link Management can help you share your content smartly and effectively, letting you measure and connect with your audience in the most meaningful way. Think of it as knowing when to chime in with just the right anecdote at a dinner party—not too often, not too scarce, but always on point.

3. Avoid oversharing personal information

Social media offers an inviting space to share our lives, but there’s a fine line between sharing and oversharing. Like that relative who insists on telling everyone about their entire medical history at family gatherings, deeply personal information usually doesn’t belong on social platforms. 

Oversharing on your social media accounts can lead to uncomfortable situations for your followers, and it might even expose you to risks like identity theft or targeted scams.

The key is to strike a balance between openness and privacy. Share what enhances connection and understanding, but leave out the details that might be too personal or sensitive. Consider your audience and context, and remember, some stories are best saved for close friends or a personal journal—not the unforgiving landscape of social media.

4. Shorten your links before sharing them

Long links on social media are like those winding, endless stories that seem to go on forever. They take up too much space and can quickly derail an otherwise engaging post. 

Lengthy URLs not only make your posts look cluttered but can also lead to mistrust. If a link is too cumbersome or looks suspicious, social media users may hesitate to click on it, leading to missed opportunities for engagement or sales.

Shortening your links, on the other hand, offers a cleaner and more appealing visual presentation. It allows you to keep your message concise and ensures that the focus remains on your content. 

Short links are also easier to track, providing valuable insights into user behavior and interaction. Whether you’re promoting a product or sharing a fascinating article, a short link makes the connection more seamless and inviting.

The best way to get started with link shortening is with Bitly. Using Bitly’s link shortener and management tools, you can transform your links into compact, effective, and trustworthy bridges to your content. 

Why settle for a jumbled mess when you can have elegance? Give Bitly’s Link Management a try and let your links shine with simplicity and style! 

Boost your marketing game with Bitly!

Get started with custom short links, QR Codes, and Bitly Link-in-bios.

5. Focus on constructive and positive interactions

In the vast universe of social networks, it’s easy to stumble into negativity or get tangled in toxic debates. But choosing the path of constructive and positive interactions can set you apart and elevate your online experience. 

Engaging positively encourages open dialogue, fosters community, and often leads to more meaningful connections. It reflects well on your personal or brand image, creating an environment where others feel welcome to join the conversation without fear of hostility.

Being constructive doesn’t mean avoiding all disagreement—rather, it’s about how you approach differing opinions. A respectful, thoughtful response can turn a potential conflict into an opportunity for growth and learning. 

Whether you’re interacting with customers or friends, focusing on the positive aspects can enhance your reputation and make your digital space a more inviting place to be. It’s a win-win approach that nourishes relationships, allowing the true essence of connection to shine through.

6. Refrain from engaging with instigators

We’ve all seen them lurking in the comment sections with snide remarks and inflammatory statements—the infamous trolls. Engaging with instigators on social media is a lot like playing a game you can’t win. It’s counterproductive and only fuels the fire of negativity. 

Responding to a troll’s provocations rarely leads to a productive conversation and can spiral into a draining and disruptive experience. By choosing to ignore or block these instigators, you maintain the integrity and positivity of your online space, ensuring that your energy is spent on connections that truly matter. 

Think of it as sidestepping a puddle on a rainy day—it keeps your journey clean and focused.

7. Respect each platform’s norms

Social media channels are like different countries, each with its own culture, language, and etiquette. What flies in one might not be well-received in another. 

Recognizing and adapting to the unique norms of each platform ensures you’re communicating effectively and respectfully. Let’s take a quick tour of some popular social media landscapes and their specific customs.

On Facebook, it’s all about community and connections. Sharing personal stories and photos, as well as engaging in friendly discussions are the norm. Think of your brand’s Facebook page as a virtual backyard barbecue where friends and family gather. Asking for likes or shares is generally acceptable, but maintaining a friendly, conversational tone is key.

LinkedIn is the boardroom of social media. It’s a professional networking site where formal language, industry insights, and career achievements are the standard. 

So use LinkedIn to connect with colleagues, share your professional milestones, and engage in industry-specific discussions. Here, a tailored suit is more appropriate than casual wear.

X (formerly Twitter)

X, formerly known as Twitter , is like a bustling city square where rapid-fire conversations take place. The rules of thumb here include concise thoughts, real-time updates, and engaging with trending topics. 

Using hashtags and mentioning others is common, but remember, brevity and relevance are your allies on this platform.

Instagram is the art gallery of social media. High-quality images, compelling visuals, and creative storytelling are expected. Whether you’re a brand or an individual, focusing on aesthetics and visual appeal helps you stand out. And don’t forget to utilize hashtags and geotags to reach a broader audience.

Threads offers an intimate, text-based conversational space distinct from platforms like Instagram. This app prioritizes close connections, emphasizing text exchanges with friends. Posts disappear after 24 hours , fostering a pressure-free sharing environment. 

Though it’s still evolving, Threads holds promise as a preferred platform for personal and close-knit social media encounters. Authenticity is encouraged, so Threads is your canvas to express thoughts, feelings, and experiences genuinely. 

8. Tag and use hashtags wisely

Tagging and using hashtags are like the spices of social media platforms—they can add flavor and help your content reach your target audience , but too much can overwhelm the dish. 

When tagging, think of relevance and context. Tagging people or brands directly related to your content encourages engagement and broadens reach, but over-tagging can look spammy and insincere. 

For hashtags, it’s all about being specific yet broad enough to capture interest. Utilizing popular, relevant hashtags can boost visibility and enhance your social media strategy , but using too many or overly generic ones can dilute your message. 

The art is in finding that sweet spot where your tags and hashtags serve as bridges to the right audience—without turning into noisy distractions.

9. Be selective in your posts and prioritize meaningful content

In a world where social media feeds are flooded with content, being selective and prioritizing meaningful posts is akin to being the wise sage in a bustling market. Quality trumps quantity, and a well-thought-out, relevant post can resonate more deeply with your audience than a barrage of random, disconnected content. 

Think of your posts as chapters in a book. Each one should contribute to the overall narrative, whether it’s a marketing strategy or a personal journey. Posting anything and everything can lead to a disjointed feed and a surplus of notifications, making it harder for followers to connect with you. 

Choosing content that aligns with your purpose and values allows for a more coherent and engaging social media presence, turning casual scrollers into devoted readers.

Shorten your links seamlessly with Bitly

Navigating social media with grace is all about understanding the rules, respecting your audience, and delivering meaningful content. Whether it’s choosing the right tone for LinkedIn or finding the perfect hashtag for Instagram, each detail matters. 

And when it comes to links, why let them sprawl when Bitly can make them sleek? Start engaging more effectively and authentically with your audience. Let the Bitly Connections Platform help you build those bridges with ease. 

Ready to take your links to the next level? Get started with Bitly today and embark on a journey toward cleaner, more impactful connections.

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Netiquette: Ethic, Education, and Behavior on Internet—A Systematic Literature Review

Rebeca soler-costa.

1 Department of Education Sciences, University of Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; se.razinu@relosr (R.S.-C.); se.razinu@iruamm (M.M.-M.)

Pablo Lafarga-Ostáriz

Marta mauri-medrano, antonio-josé moreno-guerrero.

2 Department of Didactics and School Organization, University of Granada, 51001 Ceuta, Spain; se.rgu@oneromja

In this article, an analysis of the existing literature is carried out. It focused on the netiquette (country, date, objectives, methodological design, main variables, sample details, and measurement methods) included in the Web of Science and Scopus databases. This systematic review of the literature has been developed entirely according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews (PRISMA). The initial search yielded 53 results, of which 18 exceeded the inclusion criteria and were analyzed in detail. These results show that this is a poorly defined line of research, both in theory and in practice. There is a need to update the theoretical framework and an analysis of the empirical proposals, whose samples are supported by students or similar. Knowing, understanding, and analyzing netiquette is a necessity in a society in which information and communication technologies (ICT) have changed the way of socializing and communicating. A new reality in which there is cyber-bullying, digital scams, fake news, and haters on social networks.

1. Introduction

Billions of people have taken an active part in technological development over the past decade. Social networks have been the maximum exponent of a digital revolution that has meant a before and after in terms of how people communicate and collaborate [ 1 ]. A new reality that has been mutating from the original Facebook, YouTube, and Flickr [ 2 ] to become, for example, a relevant strategy in election campaigns [ 3 , 4 , 5 ]. The perfect framework for its expansion has been mobile devices, especially smartphones [ 6 , 7 ]. Both its technical conditions and its rapid incorporation into almost any area of life today [ 8 ] have made it the perfect nexus. In fact, nowadays it is not surprising that applications such as Instagram [ 9 ], or others more associated with instant messaging [ 10 ], are among the most frequented practices when accessing these mobile devices [ 11 ].

The popularity and growth of social networks can be understood by the paradigm shift that brought about their birth, as previously the World Wide Web was based on limited usability. Its appearance meant that users were already able to create, modify, share, and discuss existing content on the Internet [ 12 ]. Consequently, the attractiveness of using these digital media was no longer governed only by the content, but also by the new possibilities of participation they offered [ 13 ]. Although it has not been total, as the digital divide is still present [ 14 , 15 , 16 , 17 ], one of the technological consequences of the second decade of the 21st century has been the easy access to these new opportunities [ 18 ]. Despite cultural differences and resistance [ 19 ], it is clear that the option of being part of and participating in these digital communities [ 20 ] has been reduced to a couple of keystrokes.

This new digital map, which over the years has unlocked new horizons, has altered such basic habits as what to take with you when you leave home: wallet, keys, and smartphone [ 21 ]. This is an everyday action that can be understood in the face of the digital approach to modern life [ 22 ] and which perfectly contextualizes the rise of digital marketing [ 23 ]. Scientific production in this area has developed considerably [ 24 , 25 ] in response to the need to understand, know, and adapt commerce in view of the new forms of relationship and consumption that have emerged as a result of social networks [ 26 , 27 ]. A new ecosystem implies an almost total rethinking of roles [ 28 ], as reflected in the so-called influencers [ 29 ], and of strategies in an environment that is struggling to obtain the greatest dissemination and impact, including for health reasons [ 30 ].

This is an interest that responds to a historical moment in which social networks offer the right possibilities to cover everything from the individual to the social [ 31 ], including work [ 32 ]. Some of the main characteristics that may justify this phenomenon are: being a quick and easy alternative to access a wide range of information [ 33 , 34 ], offering almost instantaneous interaction and communication [ 35 ], opening up business possibilities in global environments and not just local ones [ 36 ], and even serving as a parallel strategy to find out preferences and interests in particular issues [ 37 ]. These applications accompany the new digital habits, especially among the young, whose interest in the more classic media is declining and who are developing new digital skills in areas such as content consumption [ 38 ].

The so-called digital competence (DC) is the theoretical approach to this new panorama specifically in the educational field [ 39 ]. A concept that corroborates the impact of digital technology on personal development [ 40 ], which means that educational institutions must rethink their approach in light of the new needs and demands which this generates [ 41 ]. Since its incorporation in 2006, scientific interest has been increasing and evolving. Approaches have sought to explore key issues such as what the DC is in a changing technological context [ 42 ], particularly in light of legislative frameworks [ 43 ]. The most evaluative orientation has been toward understanding the level of DC in different educational contexts: educational stages [ 44 , 45 ] or agents [ 46 ]. Perspectives that respond to a context where the integration of ICT in schools occurs from the technical [ 47 ] to the methodological [ 48 ], especially during the Covid-19 pandemic [ 49 ].

Digital media can contribute, as in the educational field [ 50 ], but their use can also lead to harm. Recently, problems have emerged such as addiction to smartphones, known as nomophobia [ 51 ], whose relationship with anxiety and stress [ 52 ] shows that ICTs also have a negative side. Cyber-bullying [ 53 , 54 ] is another example of how the use of technology can be negative, similar to the anonymity of social networks as a weapon of hate [ 55 ]. Information, one of the main reasons for the use of networks, is also under scrutiny following the rise of fake news [ 56 ] and the use of user data is also controversial [ 57 ]. At the same time, consumer advocacy is growing [ 58 ], reflected in the presence of cookies on any website and “integrated shopping” in free downloadable applications.

This new framework, with its possibilities and repercussions [ 59 ], gives rise to another approach more related to how they have used: netiquette. The origin of this term, which is based on the link between the words Internet and label [ 60 , 61 ], emerges on the eve of the beginning of the 21st century and the expansion of the digital world. The Internet, as well as promoting access to knowledge or creating new professions, has created the non-face-to-face label. This can be seen in traditional face-to-face customs such as giving condolences, the development of which through social networks, especially Facebook, has become standardized [ 62 ]. A revolution that entails extrapolating civic norms from the face-to-face to the digital in a technologically interconnected world [ 63 ]. Guidelines, which are less or more assimilated, are present in couple relationships [ 64 ] or which guide the use of such essential tools as email [ 65 , 66 ] in work environments [ 67 , 68 , 69 , 70 ].

To talk about ethics or a social label is really to talk about education. It is therefore not surprising that in a context of constant inclusion of ICT in the classroom [ 71 ], netiquette is one of the areas that make up the DC. A key training requirement in current and future teachers whose preparation in the digital field continues to be analyzed [ 72 , 73 ], more so when it is a field in evolution since, above all, social networks are altering and promoting new digital habits in students [ 74 , 75 ]. In the case of the educational field, the pandemic has highlighted the role of ICTs [ 76 ], a reality which means understanding the digital label as part of human development in the 21st century. An approach that has been focused above all on students who have grown up with the digital [ 77 ] but which, in reality, is already inherent to anyone who has access to a mobile device with an Internet connection.

The present study is based on this new paradigm. Access to digital media is already a routine, even an addiction, and it is urgent to understand its new social patterns. In the educational field, especially in training, this idea is becoming increasingly present. This is due, on the one hand, to the progressive integration of ICTs into the teaching-learning processes and, on the other hand, to the impact of these changes in terms of defining what DC is and how to develop it in schools. For this reason, this work focuses on explaining the scientific reality of the term “netiquette” through a review of the literature in the main databases. This is an approach to finding out and understanding the state of research into labels in a universe marked by haters, cyberbullying, and fake news.

This systematic review is based on the analysis of existing literature in the Scopus and Web of Science (WoS) databases of the term netiquette. Its implementation has been developed in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews (PRISMA) [ 78 ] in order to answer the following questions. The structure of other publications in impact journals [ 79 , 80 , 81 ] has also been taken into consideration in order to follow models of analysis validated by experts. In turn, data from the studies analyzed are included, such as the country of origin, the date of publication, the main objectives, the methodological design, the variables considered, the details of the samples, and their scientific contributions to the area of research.

RQ1 What is the state of scientific production regarding “netiquette”?

RQ2 Has an interest in “netiquette” increased since the emergence of social networks?

RQ3 What is the scientific relationship between “netiquette” and the educational field?

2.1. Search Strategy

During the month of December 2019, a strategy was developed based on the search for articles that include the term “netiquette” in the title and that are part of two relevant scientific databases. Given the nature of this research, this restrictive criterion was chosen because otherwise the inclusion of articles that were not scientifically relevant to the research could be favored. In this sense, both terms were included in the Scopus and WOS search engines (WOS, BCI, BIOSIS, CCC, DIIDW, KJD, MEDLINE, RSCI, SCIELO), two scientific databases commonly used by experts and researchers and from which both JCR and SJR draw their information [ 82 ]. A single search criterion was established, the title of the article having to incorporate one of the two terms. This initial search yielded 53 manuscripts, although the final sample consisted of 18 references.

2.2. Inclosure Criteria

The channeling of the results to the final sample was carried out on the basis of the PRISMA protocol [ 78 ] for carrying out systematic reviews. The main objective was to analyze those articles that really focused on “netiquette,” and so it was established as a search criterion that this term should appear in the title of the articles to be analyzed later. Afterward, those results that were not articles were eliminated, both in WOS (n = 13) and in the SCOPUS database (n = 9). Of the 31 resulting articles, having searched two databases, those that were duplicated and were part of both were eliminated (n = 10). Once they were deleted, the information available on the remaining 21 articles was analyzed to check their eligibility, and they were read in full in cases of doubt about their subject matter. Finally, those whose complete text could not be found on the Internet were eliminated (n = 3), leaving the final sample reduced to 18 articles ( Figure 1 ). Articles included in the title “netiquette” or “netiquettes,” not repeated in the databases and with access to the full text.

Flow diagram of PRISMA Systematic Review about “netiquette.”

All the articles that have been considered for analysis were presented in English (n = 18). A consistent figure considering that more than half (n = 12) have been published from the UK (n = 4) or the US (n = 7). The time span between the oldest and most recent article is 23 years, covering 1995 and 2018. The focus of the articles can be grouped into two main blocks, empirical studies (n = 9) and theoretical approaches (n = 9), as shown in Table A1 and Table A2 respectively. The methodological disparity is clearly noticeable in the quantitative articles, with cases of quantitative (n = 4), mixed (n = 2), and qualitative (n = 1) approaches. ( Appendixe A and Appendixe B ).

3.1. Country

More than half of the articles studied were of Anglo-Saxon origin, specifically from the United Kingdom [ 61 , 64 , 70 , 76 ] and the United States [ 59 , 60 , 65 , 66 , 67 , 68 , 69 , 71 ]. Both cases stand out as they are the only countries that are repeated in terms of place of publication. The remaining (n = 6) come from European countries, such as Germany [ 78 ], Denmark [ 62 ] and Belgium [ 72 ]; from Asia, South Korea [ 54 ] and Jordan [ 74 ]; and from the American continent, Mexico [ 75 ]. Article [ 66 ] should be defined as having double authorship, from the United States and Canada. It should be noted that the United Kingdom [ 61 , 70 ] and the United States [ 59 , 60 , 65 , 66 , 67 , 68 , 69 ] are the only two countries that contribute articles of a theoretical nature, while those with an empirical focus are more spread out around the world.

There is a disparity in the date of publication of articles. With respect to the empirical ones, the oldest is from 2007 [ 72 ] and the most recent from 2018 [ 77 ], with only repetitions in 2017 [ 62 , 74 ]. In fact, all the articles are from the last decade [ 54 , 62 , 64 , 71 , 74 , 75 , 76 , 77 ] except the one from 2007. On the other hand, those theoretical approaches cover the period from 1995 [ 61 ] to 2018 [ 67 ] and there are also repetitions in 2011 [ 59 , 68 ]. By decade of publication, production stands out from 2000 to 2010 [ 65 , 66 , 69 , 70 ], from 2010 to 2020 [ 59 , 67 , 68 ], and from 1990 to 2000 [ 60 , 61 ]. Of the total, only four articles [ 62 , 67 , 74 , 77 ] have been published during the last five years.

On the one hand, the objectives of the empirical articles can be differentiated into those more linked to netiquette in educational contexts [ 54 , 71 , 72 , 74 , 75 , 77 ] and those oriented to more general personal or work environments [ 62 , 64 , 76 ]. In the majority of articles [ 54 , 62 , 64 , 72 , 74 , 75 , 76 , 77 ] the objective is based on knowing habits associated with the label on the net, in some cases, the objective is purely methodological [ 71 ]. As for the theoretical articles, the distinction is less clear. Up to 5 [ 59 , 65 , 66 , 67 , 68 ] focus on exposing or analyzing guidelines related to the correct use of electronic mail and two [ 60 , 61 ] provide more general guidelines for the Internet in its complexity. Only three are developed for specific contexts: hospital workers [ 68 , 69 ] and librarians [ 70 ].

3.4. Methodological Design

Two clear methodological designs can be distinguished: empirical articles [ 54 , 62 , 64 , 71 , 72 , 74 , 75 , 76 , 77 ] and theoretical articles [ 59 , 60 , 61 , 65 , 66 , 67 , 68 , 69 , 70 ]. From the first case, there is a new differentiation: quantitative supported by ad-hoc questionnaires [ 54 , 64 , 74 , 77 ], mixed approaches [ 62 , 72 ], and only qualitative [ 75 ]. One of the articles is purely methodological [ 71 ], so its scientific contribution is different from the rest. In the case of theoretical studies, they can be divided into purely theoretical [ 59 , 65 , 66 , 67 , 68 , 69 , 70 ] and literature reviews [ 60 , 61 ].

3.5. Main Variables

The variables found in the articles analyzed are very diverse. The quantitative variables explore online time and its possible relationship with cyber-bullying [ 54 ] or peer-to-peer tagging [ 64 ], university students’ knowledge of it [ 74 ], or its direct application through interaction with faculty [ 77 ]. In the case of those based on a mixed methodology [ 62 , 72 ], they are based on category analysis (attitude, motivations, unsubstantiated statements, etc.,) and are interspersed with other numerical quantitative variables (questions, number of visits to the forum, number of times they read what is published in the forum, etc.,). The qualitative article [ 75 ], with a socio-historical perspective, is based on categories such as “moral practice,” “communities of practice,” and “netiquette.”

3.6. Sample Details

The samples in half of the articles analyzed [ 54 , 62 , 64 , 71 , 72 , 74 , 75 , 76 , 77 ] are very varied. They range from small groups of 34 secondary school students [ 75 ] to 992 couples [ 64 ] or 2849 students and teachers [ 77 ]. The educational context of the samples is relevant, as more than half [ 54 , 71 , 72 , 74 , 75 , 77 ] of the articles are composed of students or graduates. There are also undefined figures when exposing themselves based on groups [ 76 ] and samples where the only requirement was to have a Facebook account [ 62 ] or to have a partner [ 64 ].

3.7. Measurement

The instruments used in the articles analyzed cover quantitative [ 54 , 64 , 74 , 77 ], mixed [ 62 , 72 ], and qualitative [ 75 , 76 ] perspectives. In this sense, the quantitative instruments have been based on the development of questionnaires designed ad-hoc [ 54 , 64 , 74 , 77 ], the mixed ones have been questionnaires and subsequent coding, and the qualitative ones have employed interviewing and discourse analysis individually or through focus groups. The theoretical articles have not used instruments in their development.

4. Discussion

The last two decades have shown the capacity for technological development and the human ability to incorporate it into daily routines [ 9 , 10 , 11 , 31 , 32 , 35 ]. In the case of the Internet, its birth and evolution have meant a before and after in humanity [ 12 , 13 , 33 , 34 ], and has altered the way people communicate and collaborate [ 1 , 18 ]. Having and using a smartphone [ 21 ], even becoming addicted [ 51 ], or spending time on social networks [ 2 ] are new patterns of behavior in a society where digital skills are becoming essential [ 26 , 27 , 29 , 36 , 38 ]. So much so that in the educational field the relevance of the so-called DC [ 39 , 40 , 41 , 42 , 43 , 50 ] is increasing. In short, it is clear that these years have seen the birth of a new question that goes beyond ethics: how to behave on the Internet [ 20 , 28 , 37 , 38 , 60 , 61 ].

The analysis of the articles compiled through Scopus and Web Of Science, 18 of which finally passed the inclusion criteria set out through the PRISMA analysis process [ 54 , 59 , 60 , 61 , 62 , 64 , 65 , 66 , 67 , 68 , 69 , 70 , 71 , 72 , 74 , 75 , 76 , 77 ], leads to the following inferences. Despite the fact that the included literature covers a significant period of time, with a margin of several decades [ 60 , 61 , 62 , 74 , 77 ], the state of the search remains exploratory. There is a disparity between theoretical and empirical approaches, which accentuates the lack of a clear line of research. E-mail [ 59 , 65 , 66 , 67 , 68 ] and its network label are the main focus of theoretical articles, while in the case of empirical ones the characteristics of the samples are usually linked to educational [ 54 , 71 , 72 , 74 , 75 , 77 ] or training contexts.

In relation to the instruments indicated in the literature analyzed, the disparity in the methodologies and tools used stands out. The quantitative researchers base their analysis on ad-hoc questionnaires [ 54 , 64 , 74 , 77 ] whose scientific criteria are not clear, so it is complex to affirm their validity and that they are reliable. At the same time, the sample sizes are disparate, with figures that are either not very representative [ 62 , 75 ] or fairly representative [ 54 , 64 , 77 ]. On the other hand, methodologies supported by open questions, coded analysis of discussion groups, or field diaries have also been found. On no occasion are the objectives of two or more articles repeated or similar, each of the articles analyzed is supported by unique theoretical frameworks and instruments.

The results presented by the articles researched can be grouped into two aspects. Theoretically, the relevance of the correct use of electronic mail in the digital world is revealed through the presentation of guidelines and guides [ 59 , 65 , 66 , 67 , 68 ]. On the other hand, digital trends are shown, such as cyberbullying [ 54 ], mourning, and commemoration practices on Facebook [ 62 ], and the impact on couple relationships [ 64 ]. In the educational framework, there are complementary ideas such as the lack of knowledge of netiquette on the part of university students [ 74 ] and the improvement in the quality of discussion in forums when guidelines of this type are provided previously [ 72 ].

5. Conclusions

Considering the results found in this work, it is consistent to conclude that netiquette is a field of study that is in its initial phase. The limited production in this line of research is very significant, especially in view of the existence of theoretical articles from more than two decades ago. It is complex to consider that there is a real interest in research in this area. Defining an ethic for a context that changes almost daily is complex, however, it is necessary to understand it if we want to improve the society. The DC [ 39 ] includes netiquette as a training demand, both from students and teachers, and it is understood in reality that it includes digital economic sectors, the rise of cyberbullying [ 54 ], or the establishment of nomophobia [ 51 ].

Different considerations can be made with regard to the starting hypotheses. Scientific production relating to netiquette is still at an early stage, without a defined theoretical basis despite being a term that has existed since before the 21st century. The birth of social networks has indeed increased the interest in netiquette, at least in terms of new habits and specific ethical factors. The works published in the past decade take into account the existence of these new media, a vision that is coherent with how they have become internalized in the routine of billions of people. The selection of students in training, whether current or recent, is a scientific criterion that reinforces the link between education and netiquette. Digital preparation is a fundamental pillar in personal, social, and professional terms. It is therefore inevitable to associate both areas in the present without thinking about the future, something that is set out in the current conception of the DC.

In relation to the limitations of the present study, existing in the studies based on the systematic review, there is a risk of having lost information because of the strategy of selection of the descriptor. Introducing the term netiquette, and its plural, as the only search elements were established in view of its presence in educational and legislative frameworks. Some of the lines of research in this area that are proposed are the creation of new instruments to find out the level of preparation of students, teachers in training, or teachers.

In conclusion, this study presents a number of theoretical and practical implications. The implications in the educational field, after having carried out the analysis, imply the need to revise the digital preparation of all the agents that form part of this field. The theoretical and practical synthesis set out in this work may mean a new scientific stage of an essential issue for the 21st century. Specifically, to cite more specific examples, it can lead to the beginning of a realistic consideration of digital needs, demands, and capacities in everyday tools such as e-mail, social networks, and even others close to home. For this reason, this study not only offers a new line of work to researchers or experts from the scientific community but can also have repercussions for anyone in the world with access to digital devices, with a special interest in the educational context.

Acknowledgments

We acknowledge the researchers of the research group AREA (HUM-672), which belongs to the Ministry of Education and Science of the Junta de Andalucía and is registered in the Department of Didactics and School Organization of the Faculty of Education Sciences of the University of Granada.

Empirical studies.

Theoretical studies.

Author Contributions

Conceptualization, P.L.-O., A.-J.M.-G., and M.M.-M.; methodology, M.M.-M. and P.L.-O.; software, A.-J.M.-G. and P.L.-O.; validation, A.-J.M.-G.; formal analysis, R.S.-C.; investigation, M.M.-M., A.-J.M.-G., R.S.-C., and P.L.-O.; data curation, A.-J.M.-G., M.M.-M., and R.S.-C.; writing—original draft preparation, M.M.-M., A.-J.M.-G., R.S.-C., and P.L.-O.; writing—review and editing, M.M.-M., A.-J.M.-G., R.S.-C., and P.L.-O.; visualization R.S.-C.; supervision, M.M.-M. and P.L.-O. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.

This research received no external funding.

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

Publisher’s Note: MDPI stays neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published maps and institutional affiliations.

Feb 15, 2023

6 Example Essays on Social Media | Advantages, Effects, and Outlines

Got an essay assignment about the effects of social media we got you covered check out our examples and outlines below.

Social media has become one of our society's most prominent ways of communication and information sharing in a very short time. It has changed how we communicate and has given us a platform to express our views and opinions and connect with others. It keeps us informed about the world around us. Social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn have brought individuals from all over the world together, breaking down geographical borders and fostering a genuinely global community.

However, social media comes with its difficulties. With the rise of misinformation, cyberbullying, and privacy problems, it's critical to utilize these platforms properly and be aware of the risks. Students in the academic world are frequently assigned essays about the impact of social media on numerous elements of our lives, such as relationships, politics, and culture. These essays necessitate a thorough comprehension of the subject matter, critical thinking, and the ability to synthesize and convey information clearly and succinctly.

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We will provide various examples of social media essays so you may get a feel for the genre.

6 Examples of Social Media Essays

Here are 6 examples of Social Media Essays:

The Impact of Social Media on Relationships and Communication

Introduction:.

The way we share information and build relationships has evolved as a direct result of the prevalence of social media in our daily lives. The influence of social media on interpersonal connections and conversation is a hot topic. Although social media has many positive effects, such as bringing people together regardless of physical proximity and making communication quicker and more accessible, it also has a dark side that can affect interpersonal connections and dialogue.

Positive Effects:

Connecting People Across Distances

One of social media's most significant benefits is its ability to connect individuals across long distances. People can use social media platforms to interact and stay in touch with friends and family far away. People can now maintain intimate relationships with those they care about, even when physically separated.

Improved Communication Speed and Efficiency

Additionally, the proliferation of social media sites has accelerated and simplified communication. Thanks to instant messaging, users can have short, timely conversations rather than lengthy ones via email. Furthermore, social media facilitates group communication, such as with classmates or employees, by providing a unified forum for such activities.

Negative Effects:

Decreased Face-to-Face Communication

The decline in in-person interaction is one of social media's most pernicious consequences on interpersonal connections and dialogue. People's reliance on digital communication over in-person contact has increased along with the popularity of social media. Face-to-face interaction has suffered as a result, which has adverse effects on interpersonal relationships and the development of social skills.

Decreased Emotional Intimacy

Another adverse effect of social media on relationships and communication is decreased emotional intimacy. Digital communication lacks the nonverbal cues and facial expressions critical in building emotional connections with others. This can make it more difficult for people to develop close and meaningful relationships, leading to increased loneliness and isolation.

Increased Conflict and Miscommunication

Finally, social media can also lead to increased conflict and miscommunication. The anonymity and distance provided by digital communication can lead to misunderstandings and hurtful comments that might not have been made face-to-face. Additionally, social media can provide a platform for cyberbullying , which can have severe consequences for the victim's mental health and well-being.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the impact of social media on relationships and communication is a complex issue with both positive and negative effects. While social media platforms offer many benefits, such as connecting people across distances and enabling faster and more accessible communication, they also have a dark side that can negatively affect relationships and communication. It is up to individuals to use social media responsibly and to prioritize in-person communication in their relationships and interactions with others.

The Role of Social Media in the Spread of Misinformation and Fake News

Social media has revolutionized the way information is shared and disseminated. However, the ease and speed at which data can be spread on social media also make it a powerful tool for spreading misinformation and fake news. Misinformation and fake news can seriously affect public opinion, influence political decisions, and even cause harm to individuals and communities.

The Pervasiveness of Misinformation and Fake News on Social Media

Misinformation and fake news are prevalent on social media platforms, where they can spread quickly and reach a large audience. This is partly due to the way social media algorithms work, which prioritizes content likely to generate engagement, such as sensational or controversial stories. As a result, false information can spread rapidly and be widely shared before it is fact-checked or debunked.

The Influence of Social Media on Public Opinion

Social media can significantly impact public opinion, as people are likelier to believe the information they see shared by their friends and followers. This can lead to a self-reinforcing cycle, where misinformation and fake news are spread and reinforced, even in the face of evidence to the contrary.

The Challenge of Correcting Misinformation and Fake News

Correcting misinformation and fake news on social media can be a challenging task. This is partly due to the speed at which false information can spread and the difficulty of reaching the same audience exposed to the wrong information in the first place. Additionally, some individuals may be resistant to accepting correction, primarily if the incorrect information supports their beliefs or biases.

In conclusion, the function of social media in disseminating misinformation and fake news is complex and urgent. While social media has revolutionized the sharing of information, it has also made it simpler for false information to propagate and be widely believed. Individuals must be accountable for the information they share and consume, and social media firms must take measures to prevent the spread of disinformation and fake news on their platforms.

The Effects of Social Media on Mental Health and Well-Being

Social media has become an integral part of modern life, with billions of people around the world using platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to stay connected with others and access information. However, while social media has many benefits, it can also negatively affect mental health and well-being.

Comparison and Low Self-Esteem

One of the key ways that social media can affect mental health is by promoting feelings of comparison and low self-esteem. People often present a curated version of their lives on social media, highlighting their successes and hiding their struggles. This can lead others to compare themselves unfavorably, leading to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem.

Cyberbullying and Online Harassment

Another way that social media can negatively impact mental health is through cyberbullying and online harassment. Social media provides a platform for anonymous individuals to harass and abuse others, leading to feelings of anxiety, fear, and depression.

Social Isolation

Despite its name, social media can also contribute to feelings of isolation. At the same time, people may have many online friends but need more meaningful in-person connections and support. This can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression.

Addiction and Overuse

Finally, social media can be addictive, leading to overuse and negatively impacting mental health and well-being. People may spend hours each day scrolling through their feeds, neglecting other important areas of their lives, such as work, family, and self-care.

In sum, social media has positive and negative consequences on one's psychological and emotional well-being. Realizing this, and taking measures like reducing one's social media use, reaching out to loved ones for help, and prioritizing one's well-being, are crucial. In addition, it's vital that social media giants take ownership of their platforms and actively encourage excellent mental health and well-being.

The Use of Social Media in Political Activism and Social Movements

Social media has recently become increasingly crucial in political action and social movements. Platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram have given people new ways to express themselves, organize protests, and raise awareness about social and political issues.

Raising Awareness and Mobilizing Action

One of the most important uses of social media in political activity and social movements has been to raise awareness about important issues and mobilize action. Hashtags such as #MeToo and #BlackLivesMatter, for example, have brought attention to sexual harassment and racial injustice, respectively. Similarly, social media has been used to organize protests and other political actions, allowing people to band together and express themselves on a bigger scale.

Connecting with like-minded individuals

A second method in that social media has been utilized in political activity and social movements is to unite like-minded individuals. Through social media, individuals can join online groups, share knowledge and resources, and work with others to accomplish shared objectives. This has been especially significant for geographically scattered individuals or those without access to traditional means of political organizing.

Challenges and Limitations

As a vehicle for political action and social movements, social media has faced many obstacles and restrictions despite its many advantages. For instance, the propagation of misinformation and fake news on social media can impede attempts to disseminate accurate and reliable information. In addition, social media corporations have been condemned for censorship and insufficient protection of user rights.

In conclusion, social media has emerged as a potent instrument for political activism and social movements, giving voice to previously unheard communities and galvanizing support for change. Social media presents many opportunities for communication and collaboration. Still, users and institutions must be conscious of the risks and limitations of these tools to promote their responsible and productive usage.

The Potential Privacy Concerns Raised by Social Media Use and Data Collection Practices

With billions of users each day on sites like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, social media has ingrained itself into every aspect of our lives. While these platforms offer a straightforward method to communicate with others and exchange information, they also raise significant concerns over data collecting and privacy. This article will examine the possible privacy issues posed by social media use and data-gathering techniques.

Data Collection and Sharing

The gathering and sharing of personal data are significant privacy issues brought up by social media use. Social networking sites gather user data, including details about their relationships, hobbies, and routines. This information is made available to third-party businesses for various uses, such as marketing and advertising. This can lead to serious concerns about who has access to and uses our personal information.

Lack of Control Over Personal Information

The absence of user control over personal information is a significant privacy issue brought up by social media usage. Social media makes it challenging to limit who has access to and how data is utilized once it has been posted. Sensitive information may end up being extensively disseminated and may be used maliciously as a result.

Personalized Marketing

Social media companies utilize the information they gather about users to target them with adverts relevant to their interests and usage patterns. Although this could be useful, it might also cause consumers to worry about their privacy since they might feel that their personal information is being used without their permission. Furthermore, there are issues with the integrity of the data being used to target users and the possibility of prejudice based on individual traits.

Government Surveillance

Using social media might spark worries about government surveillance. There are significant concerns regarding privacy and free expression when governments in some nations utilize social media platforms to follow and monitor residents.

In conclusion, social media use raises significant concerns regarding data collecting and privacy. While these platforms make it easy to interact with people and exchange information, they also gather a lot of personal information, which raises questions about who may access it and how it will be used. Users should be aware of these privacy issues and take precautions to safeguard their personal information, such as exercising caution when choosing what details to disclose on social media and keeping their information sharing with other firms to a minimum.

The Ethical and Privacy Concerns Surrounding Social Media Use And Data Collection

Our use of social media to communicate with loved ones, acquire information, and even conduct business has become a crucial part of our everyday lives. The extensive use of social media does, however, raise some ethical and privacy issues that must be resolved. The influence of social media use and data collecting on user rights, the accountability of social media businesses, and the need for improved regulation are all topics that will be covered in this article.

Effect on Individual Privacy:

Social networking sites gather tons of personal data from their users, including delicate information like search history, location data, and even health data. Each user's detailed profile may be created with this data and sold to advertising or used for other reasons. Concerns regarding the privacy of personal information might arise because social media businesses can use this data to target users with customized adverts.

Additionally, individuals might need to know how much their personal information is being gathered and exploited. Data breaches or the unauthorized sharing of personal information with other parties may result in instances where sensitive information is exposed. Users should be aware of the privacy rules of social media firms and take precautions to secure their data.

Responsibility of Social Media Companies:

Social media firms should ensure that they responsibly and ethically gather and use user information. This entails establishing strong security measures to safeguard sensitive information and ensuring users are informed of what information is being collected and how it is used.

Many social media businesses, nevertheless, have come under fire for not upholding these obligations. For instance, the Cambridge Analytica incident highlighted how Facebook users' personal information was exploited for political objectives without their knowledge. This demonstrates the necessity of social media corporations being held responsible for their deeds and ensuring that they are safeguarding the security and privacy of their users.

Better Regulation Is Needed

There is a need for tighter regulation in this field, given the effect, social media has on individual privacy as well as the obligations of social media firms. The creation of laws and regulations that ensure social media companies are gathering and using user information ethically and responsibly, as well as making sure users are aware of their rights and have the ability to control the information that is being collected about them, are all part of this.

Additionally, legislation should ensure that social media businesses are held responsible for their behavior, for example, by levying fines for data breaches or the unauthorized use of personal data. This will provide social media businesses with a significant incentive to prioritize their users' privacy and security and ensure they are upholding their obligations.

In conclusion, social media has fundamentally changed how we engage and communicate with one another, but this increased convenience also raises several ethical and privacy issues. Essential concerns that need to be addressed include the effect of social media on individual privacy, the accountability of social media businesses, and the requirement for greater regulation to safeguard user rights. We can make everyone's online experience safer and more secure by looking more closely at these issues.

In conclusion, social media is a complex and multifaceted topic that has recently captured the world's attention. With its ever-growing influence on our lives, it's no surprise that it has become a popular subject for students to explore in their writing. Whether you are writing an argumentative essay on the impact of social media on privacy, a persuasive essay on the role of social media in politics, or a descriptive essay on the changes social media has brought to the way we communicate, there are countless angles to approach this subject.

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Social-Media Etiquette: The Do’s and Don’ts

Day-to-day life has rules of etiquette. The challenges of online communication (see pages 262–265 ) mean that social media has an etiquette all its own, Below are 10 important rules to follow as you interact with others on all types of social media.

Your Turn Brainstorm with classmates ways to recognize hazardous or difficult situations when communicating in social media. Discuss best practices for handling those situations.

Staying Safe Online

The World Wide Web is, any many ways, like the Wild, Wild West. It’s full of exciting opportunities and emerging technologies like the various types of social media in this chapter. But it also has its share of hazards, including cyber bandits. To protect yourself, your family, and your computing device, you’ll need to follow a few common-sense precautions.

▶ Protect your identity.

Don’t reveal personal details to strangers online. Before making any information public, consider what it reveals about you, your home, and your family. That warning is especially true of photos and Web cam images.

▶ Use trusted sites and services.

Just as wandering down a dark alley in a city is unsafe, so is navigating an unusual Web site, chatting in an unfamiliar service, or opening a suspicious email. Stick to sites and services with a national or worldwide reputation to be safe.

▶ Look before you click.

Spammers disguise dangerous links with innocent names. (Your status bar may give you a clue.) Phishers send emails claiming to be from somewhere official, but with an infected attachment or a link to a fake Web site. If you aren’t sure, don’t click. If an email says you need to check your account, go directly to the actual Web site in your browser; avoid using links in emails.

▶ Close the door.

When finished using a personal account from a public computer—at school, at the library, or even at someone else’s house—remember to log out, so the next person cannot access your account.

▶ Don’t download anything questionable.

The surest way to get a computer virus is to download something you shouldn’t. Unscrupulous people know how tempting a “free” album, movie, game, or book is, and they often offer infected files this way. Even legitimate programs are often packaged with lots of other software that can bog down your computer. Be sure you know exactly what you are installing before giving it access to your computer.

▶ Make sure your computer has antivirus and antispam software.

Many security companies offer free versions of programs that can help keep your computer safe from intrusion. Be sure to keep the program’s virus definitions up to date, though. It is also a good idea to use an online scanner every six to twelve months to see if your antivirus program has missed anything.

Your Turn Check online for news reports of identity theft. Share in class what you discover, and discuss ways the victim could have avoided being taken advantage of.

Additional Resources

Web page: A Visual Guide to Staying Safe on Social Media

Web page: Protecting Your Personal Information on Social Media

Web page: 12 Things Students Should Never Do on Social Media

© 2014 Thoughtful Learning

Want to create or adapt books like this? Learn more about how Pressbooks supports open publishing practices.

6.2: Netiquette and Social Media

We create and curate personal profiles, post content and comments, and interact via social media as a regular part of both our personal and professional lives. How we conduct ourselves on the open internet can leave a lasting impression, one not so easily undone if it’s regrettable. The hilarious but compromising selfie you posted on Instagram five years ago is still there for your potential employer to find, judge for what it says about your professionalism, and speculate about what customers might think if they saw it too. That sarcastic reply to a public post on Facebook or Twitter in a heated moment a decade ago can come back to haunt you. We’re all learning as we go in this new media environment, but any mistakes we make along the way, no matter how much we’ve matured since, are still there for all to see and can have lasting impacts on our careers. Many candidates for political office have been taken down by their past social-media posts, and you can be sure that untold numbers of job applicants have similarly scuppered their chances with similar cavalier shares (Harris, 2015). Advice about what can be done about those mistakes, as well as how to conduct ourselves properly moving forward, can help improve your employability (adapted from Business Communication for Success , 2015, 9.1).

6.2.1: Shea’s Netiquette

• 6.2.2: Legal Considerations

6.2.3: Using Social Media Professionally

Virginia Shea’s Rules of Netiquette

• Remember the human on the other side of the electronic communication.
• Adhere to the same standards of behaviour online that you follow in real life.
• Know where you are in cyberspace.
• Respect other people’s time and bandwidth.
• Make yourself look good online.
• Share expert knowledge.
• Keep flame wars under control.
• Respect other people’s privacy.
• Don’t abuse your power.
• Be forgiving of other people’s mistakes (Shea, 1994).

Her rules speak for themselves and remind us that the golden rule (treat others as you would like to be treated) is relevant wherever there is human interaction ( Business Communication for Success , 2015, 9.1).

6.2.2: Legal Responsibilities

Your writing says something powerful about your personal credibility. It also says something about the credibility of any organization with which you’re affiliated. At work, what you write and how you write can be part of your company’s success, but it can also expose it to unintended consequences and legal responsibility. When you write, keep in mind that your words will keep on existing long after you have moved on to other projects. They can become an issue if they exaggerate, state false claims, or defame a person or legal entity such as a competing company. Another issue is plagiarism, or using someone else’s ideas or writing without giving credit to the source. Whether the material is taken from a printed book, a website, or a blog, plagiarism is a violation of copyright law and may also violate your school’s or your company’s policies. Industry standards often have legal aspects that must be respected and cannot be ignored.

The rapid pace of technology means that the law cannot always stay current with the realities of business communication. Computers had been in use for a couple of decades before the Copyright Act of 1985 was amended in 1997 to deal with internet-enabled copyright infringement. Technology advanced even further before the next major amendment came with the Copyright Modernization Act of 2012. Developments since then will continue to demand new laws to clarify what is fair and ethical, what should be prohibited, and who owns the rights to what.

For example, suppose your supervisor asks you to use your Facebook page or Twitter account to give an occasional endorsement to your company’s products. Are you obligated to comply? If you later change jobs, who owns your posts or tweets? Are they yours, or does your now-former employer have a right to them? What about your network of friends and followers? Can your employer use their contact information to send marketing messages? These and many other questions remain to be answered as technology, industry practices, and legislation evolve. For a concise set of best practices for employees and employers, see ( Reese, n.d. ).

Our product is better than X Company’s product. Their product is dangerous and you would be a wise customer to choose us for your product solutions.

What’s wrong with the two sentences above? They may land you and your company in court. You made a generalized claim of one product being better than another and you stated it as if it were a fact. The next sentence claims that your competitor’s product is dangerous. Even if this is true, your ability to prove your claim beyond a reasonable doubt may be limited. Your claim is stated as fact again, and from the other company’s perspective, your sentences may be considered libel or defamation.

When you make a false statement that damages a reputation, that is called “slander.” When you put it in writing, it called “libel.” If a false statement is published—including publication in a digital or online environment—the author of that statement may be sued for libel. If the person defamed is a public figure, they must prove malice or the intention to do harm. If the victim is an ordinary person, libel applies even if the offense cannot be proven to be malicious. You have a Charter right to express your opinion (section 2[b]), but the words you use and how you use them, including the context, are relevant to their interpretation as opinion versus fact. Always be careful to qualify what you write and to do no harm ( Business Communication for Success , 2015, 4.5).

Review sites, blogs, tweets, and online community forums are some of the continually developing means of social media being harnessed by business and industry to reach customers and other stakeholders. People’s comfort in the online environment forces businesses to market and interact there or risk a massive loss in sales and interest. Though most users learn how to use social media as an extension or facilitator of their social lives, using the same platforms for professional reasons requires some change in behaviour.

First, recognize that every modern business or organization should have a social media presence in the sites they expect their customer base to frequent, especially popular sites such as Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Messaging here must be consistent across the platforms when alerting the customer base of important information such as special events, deals, and other news.

Next, follow expert advice on how to properly take advantage of social media in detail to promote your operation and reach people. Large companies will dedicate personnel to running their social media presence, but small businesses can do much of it themselves if they follow some decent online advice such as the following pages:

• The Do’s and Don’ts of How to Use Facebook for Business [Infographic] (Mineo, 2020)
• The Ultimate Guide to Twitter for Small Business (Chen, 2018)
• How to Use Instagram for Business: A Practical Step-by-Step Guide (Newberry & Sehl, 2021)

Know also that social media is a constantly evolving environment. Stay on trend by continually searching out and implementing the latest advice similar to the above.

Finally, always consider how the sites you access and what you post represent you and your employer, even if you think others don’t know where you work or who you are. Internet service providers (ISPs) are required by law to archive information concerning the use and traffic of information that can become available under subpoena. Any move you make leaves digital footprints, so you will have to answer for any misstep that brings shame upon you or your company.

Key Takeaway

2. Identify and explain three ways that you can professionalize your online presence using social media.

Chen, J. (2018, November 14). The ultimate guide to Twitter for small business  https://sproutsocial.com/insights/twitter-for-small-business/

Harris, K. (2015, September 17). How political operatives dig up dirt to take down candidates. CBC News . http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/canada-election-2015-vetting-candidates-media-1.3229594

Mineo, G. (2020, April 27). The do’s and don’ts of how to use Facebook for business [Infographic]. https://blog.hubspot.com/marketing/dos-donts-facebook-business-infographic

Newberry, C., & Sehl, K.  (2021, April 8).  How to Use Instagram for Business: A Practical Step-by-Step Guide.  https://blog.hootsuite.com/how-to-use-instagram-for-business/

Reese, N. (n.d.). 5 ways to turn employees into advocates on Twitter.  https://business.twitter.com/en/blog/employees-advocates-on-twitter.html

6.2: Netiquette and Social Media Copyright © 2022 by John Corr; Grant Coleman; Betti Sheldrick; and Scott Bunyan is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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You Live Your Life Online. Don’t Forget Your Manners

Etiquette helps you get on in life, but having a range of etiquette makes all the difference.

By Victoria Turk

I have made many a digital etiquette faux pas in my time. I used to be that person in the office who always replied to a group email first to show how keen I was, but really I was just coming across as annoying and needy. I spammed my social media with MySpace-angle selfies — camera held aloft, lips pouting like a fish — in my formative online years. I have even ghosted someone.

As more of our lives moves online, good digital etiquette is critical. Just as we judge people by their behavior IRL — in real life — so we take note when a person’s manners in the digital sphere leave something to be desired.

Studies have tried to quantify how long it takes to make a first impression, with some suggesting it could be mere milliseconds . Rupert Wesson, academy director at etiquette authority Debrett’s , cites seven seconds as the time it takes us to make a judgment about a person after meeting them — and says the same is true for online encounters.

“We unquestionably do that in a digital context,” Mr. Wesson said. “If the medium is only words on a screen, we’re still making judgments.”

Your close friends and family might forgive the odd fumbled Facebook post or unanswered text message, but failure to exhibit good digital etiquette could result in negative outcomes or lost opportunities, whether that’s a romantic interest swiping left instead of right on Tinder, or a prospective employer passing you over because of a poorly worded email or ill-judged tweet. While recruiters might like to pretend they don’t notice such things, Mr. Wesson said it is inevitable.

“When you’ve got 200 applicants, you’re going to pick the one whose tone sounds most like the tone you use, or the tone you unconsciously think most matches the organization they’re joining,” he said.

In this sense, a basic grasp of digital etiquette is an essential aspect of modern “soft skills,” the communication and social skills that are frequently touted as a necessity for success in the workplace and are just as important in our personal lives, too. As with other “soft” qualities, however, digital etiquette is rarely taught; there’s an expectation that we should all just somehow know the rules. Further, there is no real consensus on what actually constitutes “good” digital manners, and even if there were, that consensus would be constantly shifting as technology advances and social mores evolve.

It’s a wonder we manage to digitally communicate at all, so if you’re feeling overwhelmed, here are some starting points.

Learn the lingo

Digital communication is usually text-based, meaning that your manners and etiquette often rely solely on your writing skills. Both the content of your message and its tone will live or die based on what you type on your keyboard, so the gap between, say, landing a joke and causing mortal offense can be perilously fine.

However, we’ve adapted plenty of creative ways to help make sure our intentions are correctly interpreted. These include new formats, like emoji, but also new usages of old language tools. Gretchen McCulloch, a linguist and author of “ Because Internet: Understanding the New Rules of Language ,” highlights the use of punctuation to convey tone of voice, rather than for grammatical effect, as one such evolution.

“Anything that’s not necessary has the potential to take on additional connotations,” she said.

[Like what you’re reading? Sign up here for the Smarter Living newsletter to get stories like this (and much more!) delivered straight to your inbox every Monday morning.]

Take the humble period. In digital messaging, a period is no longer required to show that the message is over; a sent message is presumed to be complete. Instead, a period can add a sense of finality or even passive-aggression — although this depends on the context. Ms. McCulloch draws a parallel to spoken language: A period at the end of a sentence would usually suggest a lowering intonation. When used in a sincere context — as in, “That’s terrible.” — this reinforces the seriousness of the message. But when used after a short, positive phrase — “That’s great.” — the tone of voice implied by the period can add a sense of sarcasm.

When something as simple as a period can have two almost diametrically opposed meanings, how can you be sure you’re on the same page? Ms. McCulloch suggests being upfront and requesting or offering clarifications when needed. If you’re not sure your attempt at humor has gone over, for instance, you could follow up with a message to the effect of, “Just joking!”

“It does seem a little bit awkward, but I think it’s better than going through life assuming that everyone’s mad at you,” she said.

Read the room

As in the real world, a lot of digital etiquette is highly context-dependent; you wouldn’t behave the same way when sending an email to your manager as you would when texting your best friend. As well as choosing the right level of formality for the situation, you should be prepared to adapt according to the culture and background of the person you are speaking with and the medium through which you are communicating.

“Etiquette helps you get on in life, but actually the most successful people are the ones who have the greatest range of etiquette,” Mr. Wesson said.

He suggests to always start with a higher level of formality and work your way down. From there, you should look at what other people are doing and try to reflect their behavior back.

“It’s exactly the same as going out for a business lunch in a country you’re unfamiliar with,” Mr. Wesson said. “You keep your eyes and ears open.” In an email chain, this could mean starting with a formal means of address, such as “Dear Mr. Wesson,” but then switching to “Hi Rupert” if the conversation becomes more familiar.

“One of the principles of being polite with language is that the more effort it takes you to do something, the more polite it’s often considered,” Ms McCulloch said. Instead of asking someone, “Could you close the window?” you might ask, “Would you mind possibly closing the window?” The meaning is the same, but the second option shows a degree of extra effort in an attempt to be more considerate.

There are occasions, however, when the “politest” option may not actually be the most appropriate. If you have a close relationship with someone, switching to a more formal register can introduce a note of distance. Using complex sentences with impeccable grammar in a group chat with your friends is likely to come across as rather aloof.

“Sometimes the politest form may not actually be the one that signals the right thing about your relationship,” Ms. McCulloch said.

There are plenty of specific digital etiquette pointers to live by: don’t reply-all to an all-office email; always get consent before sending an intimate photo; never leave a voicemail (a text message shows much more respect for the other person’s time). But in general, it’s hard to formalize exactly what the rules are.

“It’s like nailing jelly to a wall,” Mr. Wesson said. “It keeps moving, and it keeps developing.”

Etiquette in the digital world can shift particularly quickly as new technologies and platforms call for the development of new standards. The widespread adoption of the smartphone, for instance, completely upturned our expectations around email; as soon as we all gained the ability to check email on the go, we began to expect people to respond much more quickly than before. Though even that expectation already may be passé as concerns around unplugging and embracing our down time take root.

Even where the technology stays the same, social and cultural norms can rapidly shift. To be fair to my former self, it used to be quite accepted — expected, even — that you would upload whole albums full of photos to Facebook and tag everyone in them. Now, the rise of Instagram has correlated with a more curated approach to online photo-sharing, and people are generally more aware of privacy and security concerns. Language, too, quickly evolves: when I, a Millennial, recently said “lol” in spoken conversation, my Gen Z colleague literally laughed out loud.

The most important thing, according to Mr. Wesson, is to stay human, and to keep in mind the guiding principles of all etiquette: care and consideration for other people. He said that Debrett’s doesn’t believe in etiquette rules , but etiquette guidelines. Once you know the basics, you should remain flexible.

“ I think the danger is, if you over-codify it,” he said, “then you risk becoming too bland and perhaps inhuman.”

Victoria Turk is the author of “ Kill Reply All: A Modern Guide to Online Etiquette, from Social Media to Work to Love .”

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11 Dos and don’ts on social media etiquette for businesses

Written by by Jacqueline Zote

Published on  June 28, 2021

Reading time  6 minutes

Oversharing and spamming on social media. We’e seen it and have been guilty of it at some point as well. These are social media etiquettes we all know (but sometimes fail to follow). Personal accounts aside, businesses also should maintain certain etiquette in their social media presence.

Social media etiquette refers to both the spoken and unspoken set of social conventional rules of personal and business behavior online. It dictates how people conduct themselves on social media so they remain respectful and respectable.

Bad social media etiquette on your personal account will probably leave you with posts that make your future self cringe. But for businesses, it could affect their brand reputation and can deter customers from returning.

That’s why we’ll provide you with the best dos and don’ts to maintain proper social media etiquette for your business and why it’s important.

Why is social media etiquette important?

With an increasingly vigilant internet population, a single mistake on social media can make or break a business.

Outlining proper social media etiquette in your social media policy will help you:

• Protect against legal and security issues : If your industry has stringent privacy and compliance laws, your system will keep you on the right side of the regulations.
• Protect against privacy risks : Social media etiquette outlines what’s acceptable to share and what isn’t. This helps prevent privacy violations for your business and for others.
• Empower staff: When your employees know how to share content safely online, they can represent and advocate for your organization, without harming your reputation.
• Defend your brand: Social media etiquette ensures that everyone who interacts with your brand on social media will see a respectable, professional business.

1. Understand Each Platform’s Best Practices

Most social media etiquette principles are relevant across all platforms. But there are also best practices that are specific to each platform, such as:

• Don’t use your Twitter character count to ask for Retweets; share valuable content and followers will Retweet organically
• Know when and to whom you should send a LinkedIn connect request
• Don’t post too frequently and flood your Instagram feed

Make sure you read up on the best practices of each platform, such as Facebook or Instagram , to understand platform-specific etiquette and expectations.

2. Don’t Be Overly Promotional

People may follow your brand on social media to learn more about your products or services. But that doesn’t mean you should constantly share advertisements or promotional content. According to the Sprout Social Index™, Edition XVI: Above & Beyond, 45% of consumers would even unfollow a brand if it posts too many ads.

Use the right blend of entertaining, educational and promotional content to keep your audience engaged. For example, Zoom’s Twitter feed has a healthy mix of informative and educational content, new feature updates and promotional posts.

How virtual will the future be? We asked 7,689 people across 10 countries for their preference between virtual, hybrid, or in-person life and work activities. Here's what they said: https://t.co/3TydV5KVCU pic.twitter.com/GqIsXma0oK — Zoom (@Zoom) May 10, 2021

3. Monitor Posts Frequently

It’s easy to fall into the habit of scheduling your posts and forgetting all about them. But failing to check how people react to your posts is poor social media etiquette. Otherwise, how would you know what kind of posts are resonating with your audience? How would you know if your posts are relevant?

Sprout Social gives you a robust set of social media analytics tools to monitor your social posts, uncovering insights such as likes, comments and saves. These insights give you a better understanding of what resonates with your audience and how to adjust your social strategy.

4. Maintain Hashtag “Hygiene”

Using too many hashtags on a post can look messy and unappealing. Just because you can add 30 hashtags on Instagram , doesn’t mean you should.

Good social media etiquette is picking out only the most relevant hashtags for each post. Using branded hashtags can expand your brand awareness and create communities as well.

Trupanion keeps it short and sweet with just a couple of occasion-based hashtags.

It may be #DogMomDay , but I am not missing out on the action. #Caturday pic.twitter.com/BDiOctdiwt — Trupanion (@Trupanion) May 8, 2021

5. Be Responsive; Not Reactive

One of the most dangerous things a brand can do is getting caught in an argument on social media. This will reflect poorly on your brand and may even chase away customers.

Rather than quickly reacting to every negative social media comment and brand mention, listen to understand the situation. Then come up with a response that fits the situation and your brand voice . If the conversation gets more heated online, despite your best efforts, try moving the conversation into DMs or have them email your customer support team directly.

In the following Tweet, Hershey’s does a great job of responding to the customer complaint with:

• An explanation

https://twitter.com/rejectednut/status/1395943911244419076

6. Don’t Force a Connection

Most brands know the importance of forming a strong bond with their target audience . But some make the mistake of trying way too hard, coming across as inauthentic or even desperate.

Let a connection between you and your audience form naturally through consistent engagement. Post regularly, listen to your audience and respond to them. And don’t forget to stay true to your brand voice.

Employee advocacy and influential executives can also help your brand form a stronger, more authentic connection with followers. People may be more comfortable connecting with the human face behind your brand rather than the brand itself.

In our #BrandsGetReal survey , we found that 70% of consumers feel a better connection to a brand when its CEO is active on social media. And 72% of consumers also experience a similar connection when they see employees sharing information about a brand on social media.

PayPal’s Dan Schulman is the perfect example of an influential executive who can connect with the audience. He uses LinkedIn to share empathetic and timely messages as well as PayPal’s efforts to uplift minority business owners.

7. Don’t Beg for (or Buy) Followers

Asking for followers at every single opportunity can come across as desperate and off-putting.

Don’t be in a hurry to gain a following. Instead, let it build naturally through consistent posting, authentic interactions and high-quality content . People who value your content will flock to your page over time.

8. Remember Humor Isn’t Universal

While jokes can add a fun, friendly tone to your message, always remember that humor isn’t universal. What works for one brand may not work so well for yours. And most people may not share your sense of humor.

So even if humor fits with your brand personality, make sure it’s appropriate and well-placed. You could also create a social media style guide that outlines the kind of voice and humor that works for your brand.

BarkBox goes for light-hearted and relatable humor involving dogs, which resonates with the target audience.

https://www.facebook.com/barkbox/videos/3759727064155245

9. Play Nice with Competitors

How you interact with or talk about the competition says a lot about the brand you represent. Brands like Wendy’s have been riding the wave of social media fame with its unrelenting roasts and snarky comments about competitors. But this strategy doesn’t work for everyone.

Even if it fits with your brand style, you still need flawless execution and some level of social media presence to make it work. Otherwise, it will come off as rude and unappealing. In fact, 67% of consumers  find it annoying when brands make fun of competitors.

So avoid bad-mouthing your competition as you could end up hurting your reputation more than it hurts theirs.

10. Give Credit to Sources

If your social content strategy involves content curation and user-generated posts, don’t forget to give credit where it’s due. When you’re reposting photos, quotes or videos from others, make sure you clearly attribute it to them.

This is easier on platforms like Twitter, where you can simply hit “Retweet.” For Instagram, using a repost app simplifies this process of capturing the original caption. Still, on platforms like Instagram or Facebook, it’s wise to reach out to the original poster for their permission before you use their image on your brand page.

See how BISSELL gives due credit even when it’s reposting Instagram content to Facebook.

https://www.facebook.com/bissell/photos/a.98038490038/10159594497955039/

11. Build a Positive Image

Social media gives you the perfect platform to strengthen your brand image. And proper social media etiquette will help you reach that goal.

To build a positive brand image, start by spreading positivity through your social media. Share inspirational news, create uplifting content and celebrate your employees. Even in the face of negativity and controversy, respond with patience and kindness.

Maintaining transparency on social media is also crucial for building a positive brand image. In fact, it could even cultivate brand loyalty . According to another #BrandsGetReal survey , 85% of consumers are more likely to stay loyal to a business during a brand crisis if there’s a history of transparency.

So own up to mistakes, give honest responses to customer questions and be transparent about your manufacturing practices.

Do it right on social media

Following all these “rules” may seem challenging. But it all boils down to caring about your audience and what they think. If you put their needs first, you can naturally maintain these social media etiquettes with minimal effort.

Want to learn more about what consumers think about brands’ social media behavior? Download the Sprout Social Index™ for more consumer insights.

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Social Media Etiquette for Businesses in 2024

Content manager

Onlypult blog author and editor. 10 year experienced professional copywriter, is interested in social media and e-mail marketing.

What Is Social Media Etiquette (Netiquette)?

Why is social media etiquette important for businesses, 1. understand the current issues, 2. don’t overuse automation, 3. respond quickly, 4. be respectful towards competition, 5. beware of too many hashtags, 6. avoid oversharing, 7. be proactive, not reactive, 8. know who to follow, 9. give credit where credit’s due, 10. consider the tone, 11. use safe humor, 12. know the specifics of each platform, 13. check grammar and spelling before posting, 14. keep your feed tidy, 15. don’t be needy, facebook etiquette, instagram etiquette, twitter etiquette.

• What Is the Golden Rule of Netiquette?
• What Should Businesses Not Do on Social Media?
• What to Avoid Posting on Social Media

As a business on social media, you need to think carefully before you hit publish. These days, it’s inexcusable to allow bad manners, poor behavior, and forgotten etiquette. All the issues become amplified when you take into account the wide global reach of social media.

This article will pinpoint the exact rules that any modern business with an online presence must follow. We’ll give actionable recommendations as well as explain the do’s and dont’s for major platforms.

Just like etiquette is a customary code of polite behavior in society, netiquette is a code aimed to maintain manners on the Internet. The netiquette definition covers all facets of the online world, including email, messengers, social media, multiplayer gaming, and other types of online communication.

The general idea behind netiquette rules is to respect others online. For example, you shouldn’t share personal information, photos, or videos that another person wouldn’t want to be published. You should also thank others for helping you.

Social media etiquette is a subset of netiquette that aims to preserve the reputation of companies and individuals on social media. The demands of social media etiquette differ from one platform to the next, which is why you should also abide by platform-specific guidelines.

There are unspoken social media rules that technically aren’t mandatory. But for businesses, whether you follow these rules could mean the difference between profit and loss. If you want your social media marketing efforts to pay off, etiquette shouldn’t be overlooked.

Why is it important to understand the rules of engagement in social media? Here are a few reasons:

• Prevents reputational damage – Your audience will see your brand as a respectable, professional business that knows how to handle social media.
• Gives your staff clear guidelines – Your team will be informed on what conduct is expected from them online: for posting content, interacting with users, or defending your organization.
• Attracts followers and brand advocates – People are more likely to follow and support a company with a carefully crafted social reputation.
• Protects against legal and security issues – Rules of netiquette aren’t only about being polite. They also help businesses stay compliant with privacy and copyright laws.

There have been several cases of social media fails following Hurricane Sandy. Most notably, Urban Outfitters and Sears took serious criticism for sending insensitive tweets and trying to capitalize on the wake of destruction.

Both brands had to delete the tweets and issue an apology. Interestingly, Urban Outfitters’ stock price dropped from $28 to $13 in a matter of months, which might have been prompted by the controversial tweet.

As you can see, even big brands can fail to understand how their careless campaigns could damage their businesses. UO and Sears eventually managed to rebuild their reputations, but neglecting netiquette guidelines so outrageously can cost smaller businesses everything.

With Onlypult, save time you spend on SMM tasks — posting to all social media, analytics, multiple links, micro landing pages, web monitoring. All in one place.

15 Basic Rules of Social Media Etiquette for Businesses

Now that we’re on the same page about the importance of social media etiquette for businesses, let’s make our way to practical recommendations. These are easy to apply and require no investments. The points below are social media etiquette tips that work for every industry and on every social platform.

Keep tabs on what’s happening in the world and sensitively express your opinions. In other words, read the room. If you say the right things at the right time, it will have a positive impact on customer sentiment.

Many brands have commented on the Black Lives Matter movement. For example, Marc Jacobs showed their support through an Instagram post. But even for any other business, whether they support the movement or not, posting content that is irrelevant to current events would read as insensitive and drive customers away.

Too much of anything is usually not the best idea, but using automation as your only tactic of posting can quickly lead to overuse. At times, planned posts are a great way to save time and optimize your posting schedule. However, you should also be spontaneous, add photos and commentary to social media on-the-fly, to stay relevant.

53% of survey respondents expect a response from a brand within an hour for regular questions. For complaints, however, the number jumps to 72%. So, make sure to have a team member responsible for reacting to both positive and negative feedback. Otherwise, the situation can quickly get out of control.

Best Buy Customer Support did a great job of responding within half an hour to a potential customer on Twitter. They quickly sent an encouraging tweet and, as a result, the communication resulted in a real-life purchase.

Bantering with other brands seems to be a popular practice these days, but it can leave the wrong impression. For many people, trashing others is not a sign of honorable behavior. Instead, show that you respect other companies within your industry. Taking the high road will win you more fans, more likes, and more business.

Two companies – Disney and Pixar – had this fun interaction on Twitter. Both promoted animation films that each studio produced, but it still led to a heart-warming conversation with no hint of rivalry.

The tasteful use of hashtags is a useful tool for attracting potential customers to your page. But if there are more hashtags than actual text, they bring no value and only make you seem desperate. Also, avoid spamming popular hashtags, like #love, #happy, and #dog. Hashtags that are specific to your audience and have an engaged community behind them are the way to go.

On February 14, Domino’s posted a photo with a concise description and only one hashtag. They could’ve flooded the post with multiple seemingly relevant hashtags for better reach. But instead, they made a much better decision to keep it simple and shareable.

It’s easy to post on social instantaneously, without giving it much thought. However, is this really necessary? Make sure new content adds to your narrative and meets your business objectives. Your customers don’t need to know everything about your brand – sometimes, less is more.

Spot the problems as they are forming. But even if you notice that the situation is becoming aggravated, never get involved in a social media spat. Communicate with online users in the same manner that you would if they came to your store.

You might’ve seen examples where brands were almost annoyed at a customer sharing a complaint. At the very least, some of them aren’t helpful. This isn’t the case with Zappos. Despite the user not being welcoming to their offers, they didn’t snap back.

Your follower list also represents your brand. Just like you don’t want to be posting and reposting mindlessly, you don’t want to dilute your brand with thousands of followers. You shouldn’t only focus on the number – who and what those accounts are also matters. These give your brand context and set the general tone.

Coca-Cola’s ‘following’ list on Instagram is filled with great initiatives like food banks and non-profit companies. This conveys the message that the corporation isn’t only after monetary profits but is also interested in helping global communities.

Before reposting content from other accounts, ask for their permission to share and be ready to take no for an answer. To give credit, you can simply add the owner’s username in the caption to show that the image belongs to someone else.

Starbucks has a regular practice of reposting user content. When doing so, they always tag the original creator of the photo. It sets a bad tone to repost images without acknowledgment, and the Starbucks social media team never breaks this rule.

Your brand personality can be described in an adjective. Make sure it’s not bragging, complaining, retorting, or venting. Instead, go for lively, positive, or professional. If you’re often making snarky comments, it will drive people off.

Using humor is great, but you should be mindful not to insult your audience or sound offensive. Also, you can incorporate pop culture phrases but not without fully understanding their meaning. There have already been some mishaps with “Netflix and chill” and phrases like that.

Innocent Drinks is a good example of how to use humor on social media. Their jokes are ridiculous but not too edgy. Not all types of humor translate well in written form and for a large audience, but this one is pretty safe and family-friendly.

Not all content needs to be shared everywhere. For example, if you compare Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook accounts, you’ll notice that brands post entirely different things on each platform. It’ll be clear if you recycle Twitter content on Facebook. But it’s not necessarily a drawback – you can maximize the opportunities of each medium in unique ways.

You can get away with the odd mistake here and there. But if you keep making silly grammar errors, you might soon see your follower numbers fall through the floor. At the very least, you’ll be known as an unprofessional account. Brands publish tons of content every day, and only those that are highly polished and well-structured will stand out.

Spare your followers a flashy, mismatched feed unless it’s your brand aesthetic, and you’re making this decision deliberately. Once again, it’s not a requirement, but a coherent feed will attract more followers.

BMW maintains a color story and organizes the highlights. Even these two simple things make the account aesthetically pleasing. Interestingly, images vaguely even feature the same color as the logo. As for companies with lower funds that don’t match what BMW has, they can also arrange a neatly looking feed effortlessly.

Never beg for likes, comments, and other types of engagement. Not only does it not work, but it also annoys the audience and puts the account on the platform’s blacklist. Facebook even began clamping down on “engagement bait” across its social network. If the content doesn’t get enough engagement, it means that you should be directing your effort toward improving it rather than making your audience do the work.

The casual community of Facebook makes engagement with others feel natural. However, the audience here tends to get heavily into politics. The Facebook etiquette dictates that you should always show respect, especially when discussing or posting about politics. Acknowledge tragedies with a simple, empathic message without injecting any promotion and never “like” bad news.

Also, a common mistake is to cross-post between Facebook and other social platforms. These days, it’s considered bad taste, so turn off automatic posting.

Instagram is the perfect place to share something visual, which is why most etiquette rules cover photo content. Take high-quality photos and edit them outside of the app – posting grainy, blurry, and overall unprofessional pictures won’t pass according to the Instagram etiquette.

Location tag other businesses to show courtesy as well as other accounts you feature on your page. Never include direct links since they aren’t clickable on Instagram, and you’ll just annoy your followers. Lastly, help more than you sell – 80% to inform, educate, and entertain, 20% to promote – otherwise, it’d be simply rude.

Twitter handles rapid-fire conversation, making it a useful platform to easily insert your business into the current topics. According to the Internet comment etiquette on Twitter, you should actually engage in discussions and post valuable content – not just inspirational quotes.

Be wary of who you respond to and how. Unlike Instagram comments and likes which get lost, Twitter shows everything. If you’re contemplating posting a sassy response, remember that it’s visible right on your profile page. Also, remember what someone sends you via a direct message isn’t for public consumption, and with Twitter etiquette, there’s implied confidentiality.

Onlypult posts to all social media platforms, provides analytics data, builds teamwork and saves you time.

The main idea behind the Golden Rule of netiquette is something that everyone was taught as a child: do unto others as you would have them do unto you. It’s easy to get impersonal and rude behind a computer screen, so this rule reminds users that people deserve respectful treatment online.

Proper netiquette was first suggested back in 1994 in a book by Virginia Shea and maintained its relevance to this day.

In addition to all the points we made above, we can advise against several other practices that could ruin your online reputation. You should not:

• Make sexual references
• Ignore comments
• Spam your fans and followers
• Self-promote all the time

Any account, but especially business ones with a following and influence, shouldn’t post the following:

• Misleading information
• Confrontational comments
• Insufficient information
• Content that is not proofread
• Inconsistent branding message
• Irrelevant content

All these rules are intuitive yet crucial if you want to grow your community and use your social media presence to form relationships.

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Emily Post’s Netiquette

By Betsy Morais

In 1922, Emily Post published “Etiquette,” the book that set the standard for social conduct. It also gave rise to a family business, now run by its fifth generation, called the Emily Post Institute, which maintains an expanding collection of etiquette guides, runs manners seminars, and oversees the “Etipedia.” Now, Post’s great-great-grandson, Daniel Post Senning, has published “Emily Post’s Manners in a Digital World: Living Well Online,” an extension of the matriarch’s brand of propriety into the Facebook-OkCupid-Tumblr milieu. “Ultimately,” he writes, “we are talking about traditional social norms—being friendly, thoughtful, considerate, sincere, respectful—and how we carry those with us when we enter the world of social media and mobile devices.”

Senning begins his book by promising that he writes “for technophiles and technophobes alike.” But it’s the latter who stand to gain the most from the manual, if they think to pick it up at all. Readers will encounter tips like “Need to know something or how to do something? The Google search is a new norm for finding out anything instantly,” and “Be sure to engage in the back-and-forth of the Twitter conversation.” Some will dismiss misguided instructions: “As a general rule, don’t open e-mails that don’t have a subject line.” And his earnest, perhaps clichéd, suggestions for commenters—“leave the flame-thrower at home,” “know your own hot buttons,” and “never insult or question someone’s intelligence or integrity”—are endearingly reasonable but misunderstand the ruthlessness of trolls . This book will not reform the discourteous, but it may coach the naïve.

Mostly, Senning takes a read-the-room approach. “It goes without saying that you need to know how to use a medium before you dive in,” he writes of Twitter. “Save yourself some embarrassment (and maybe your job) and read the ‘How To’ guide first.” He also advises, “One person’s news is another person’s waste of time.”

The Internet helps foster communication, but, as Senning notes, it also elegantly can help with avoidance. In one useful section, he points out the virtue in how Facebook allows you to reject someone’s request for friendship with the click of a “not now” button instead of the company’s original term, “ignore.” He writes, “In real life it can be impossible to ignore someone who is reaching out to you. Maybe this is why Facebook changed the option.” These are the cues that allow social media to function; they ease the friction of undesired encounters. Some wish to take this to the extreme, like Nick Bilton of the New York Times , who has made a case against thank-you e-mails . Senning takes a more measured approach, rarely handing down pronouncements or prohibitions. On whether to leave voicemails, he writes, vaguely, “model the behavior you’d like to see in others.”

Senning, though, could have gone much further. What we really need is a guide for those already immersed in the Internet; there is the alphabet, and then there is fluency. A Twitter user may be familiar with the “@” symbol, but it carries its own detailed rules. For instance, “.@” has different implications than “@” on its own. Depending on context, placing the period before the symbol can either be generous—“.@strugglingmusician has a terrific new video on YouTube”—or self-serving. (“.@minorcelebrity thanks for the compliment!”) As in “real life,” these kinds of signals are used as self-conscious indications of relative status. Those who are adept at handling these interactions are rewarded with esteem (followers). Offenders, and those who slip into bot-speak—hashtags are the vocabulary of machines, not humans—are shunned.

In 1976, the anthropologist Clifford Geertz, writing about linguistic etiquette on the island of Java, noted, “It is nearly impossible to say anything without indicating the social relationship between the speaker and listener in terms of status and familiarity.” This describes the Internet today, from the wording of an e-mail to a request on Facebook, not to mention subtweets and Snapchat. Every pixel is embedded with agenda: argumentative, promotional, admiring, documentary, yearning for simulated intimacy. Geertz added another complication, too: status is communicated “not only intentionally in terms of word selection within the speaker’s dialect but unintentionally in terms of the dialect he uses as a whole.” Replace “dialect” with “platform”—Facebook versus Twitter, e-mail versus Gchat—and the same truth holds. When is it appropriate to post a message on someone’s wall rather than tweet or write an e-mail? The sender could advertise familiarity on an open forum—and thus might stand to gain—or defer to the privacy of a direct message. There’s a compelling argument to be made against the public exchange.

Digital life needs etiquette. At the same time, etiquette shapes the contours of digital life. So very politely, we “like,” “favorite,” and “share.” We sign up for accounts because we want to interact with people in the “right way.” And not only should you mind your manners when tweeting but the act itself—a tweet, a follow, a LinkedIn recommendation—becomes socially mandated. Jennifer Kahn’s Profile of Jaron Lanier notes that his book “You are Not a Gadget” argues that when teen-agers cultivate their online reputations, they are “driven more by fear than by love.” Friends have told me that they maintain a Facebook profile so they don’t become socially obsolete—to shut it off would be antisocial, contrarian, rude.

Many have handed down commandments on the rules of Web manners. Etiquette is a public performance, just as it was a century ago—but now “public” has become synonymous with “on the Internet.” Underlying all the prescriptions is the vanishing line between the manners of the analog universe and those of its virtual counterpart, since we move so seamlessly from one to the other. Senning writes, “In an increasingly connected world, it is up to each individual to set boundaries.” We will be judged, then, by the standard of presence—the courtesy of acknowledging our surroundings.

Illustration by Steve Powers.

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By David Remnick

By Benjamin Wallace-Wells

By John Paul Brammer

By Hannah Goldfield

What Is Social Etiquette & Its Examples

Do you find conferences intimidating and sometimes even a bit overwhelming? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! There are awkward icebreakers,…

Do you find conferences intimidating and sometimes even a bit overwhelming? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! There are awkward icebreakers, poor eye contact in general and the jitters while approaching a room full of strangers. So, how do you stand out and make a first impression?

Social etiquette practices will teach you how to confidently navigate all kinds of social situations. Read on to see what does and doesn’t work while trying to make a lasting first impression.  Let’s start by understanding what social etiquette is.

What Is Social Etiquette?

Humans are social animals and it’s important that they follow certain norms that facilitate interpersonal relationships. Social etiquette is exactly how it sounds, it refers to the behavior you resort to in social situations—interactions with your family, friends, coworkers or strangers. We’re expected to follow social norms in order to coexist and live in harmony.

Social etiquette influences how others perceive and treat you. It can help you create lasting impressions that establish trust and reliance. Practicing good social manners not only help you build lifelong relationships; it also helps you create fruitful opportunities. Let’s look at some real-life social etiquette examples to understand the concept better.

Remembering people’s names and making them feel good

Saying ‘sorry’ or ‘excuse me’ immediately after sneezing

Using ‘thank you’ and ‘sorry’ when a situation calls for it

Saying ‘excuse me’ while navigating your way through a crowd

Holding the door for somebody standing in front of or behind you

Types Of Social Etiquette

We practice different kinds of social etiquette depending on the situation we’re in. For example, the way you behave at a family dinner is quite different from the way you behave at a business lunch. Let’s look at the types of social etiquette we practice depending on different situations:

Face-To-Face Etiquette

Face-to-face interactions aren’t always easy. Here are a few etiquette practices to follow when you meet someone:

Use your full name to introduce yourself and greet the other person. You can simply use ‘hello, nice to meet you’ to break the ice. A smile and a firm handshake make it easier to build rapport.

Pay attention to your body language so that you don’t come off as rude or unprofessional. Good posture, eye contact and a confident attitude can make a huge difference.

One of the most important aspects of social etiquette is paying attention to people. Never interrupt anyone mid-sentence and always listen respectfully.

Social Media Etiquette

Social etiquette also extends to social media and online communication. Here are some ways to ensure proper conduct on social media platforms:

If someone doesn’t accept your friendship or follow requests, leave them be.  If it’s important to connect with someone, message them and state your purpose.

Avoid posting insensitive content on your social media handles. If you make a mistake, own up and apologize.

Always get consent if you want to share someone else’s information, photos or content. Before tagging someone in a post or photograph, check if they’re comfortable with it.

Virtual Meeting Etiquette

Work from home has become the new normal for most businesses today and virtual meetings have become a part of daily work routine. Here are a few tips to help you maintain proper social etiquette during online meetings:

Dress for success! Wearing appropriate attire can help you feel confident. It also shows that you pay attention to details and it’ll impress your audience.

Mute your microphone when you’re not speaking. It ensures that there’s no echo and you don’t disrupt the flow of meetings.

It may be tempting to check your phone but try to stay present and active. Participate in discussions and show anyone who’s speaking that you’re respectfully listening to them.

Good social etiquette promotes kindness, humility and consideration. Even the smallest acts can make the biggest difference! Harappa Education’s  Practicing Excellence course will help you look at the bigger picture. The Four Selfs of Excellence framework will teach you how to present the best version of yourself and make others feel comfortable in your presence. The 1% Rule will help you pay attention to details and make small improvements for better performance. Practice excellence and exceed everybody’s expectations!

Explore topics such as  What is Etiquette ,  Business Etiquette ,  Meeting Etiquette ,  Telephone Etiquette ,  Email Etiquette  & Difference between  Etiquette and Manners   from our Harappa Diaries section and improve your social skills to develop professionally.

Social Media Etiquette & Ethics: A Guide for Personal, Professional & Brand Use.

With 73% of the world’s Internet users active in social media, 83% of Fortune 500 companies with social media accounts and 92% of recruiters using social media to find candidates it is too important not to carefully consider your actions. Social media brings together our personal, professional and working lives in a way no other medium has before. How do we navigate this social landscape where our worlds collide and brands communicate like people in one-on-one conversations with consumers?

Click here for an updated version of this article and template.

Etiquette is the proper way to behave and Ethics studies ideas about good and bad behavior. Both combine into Professionalism , which is the skill, good judgment, and polite behavior expected from a person trained to do a job such as social media marketing. Because social media blurs the lines between our personal and professional lives it is useful to look at actions in social media from three perspectives: Personal (as an individual), Professional (as an employee or perspective employee) and Brand (as an organization). To simplify the discussion I have created questions for each category in the Social Media Etiquette and Ethics Guide below.

If you think what you do in social has to do only with your personal life, there are facts you should consider: 60% of employers use social sites to research job candidates, 41% say they use social networking sites to research current employees and 26% have found content online that caused them to reprimand or fire an employee. Even if you try to keep your social profiles completely private 41% of employers say they are less likely to interview someone if they find no information about that person online.

The top types of content that turns employers off should not surprise you: Inappropriate photographs, videos, drinking/using drugs, discriminatory comments, bad-mouthing a previous company or fellow employee, and poor communication skills. The good news is employers can find information that causes them to hire a candidate including: background supports job qualifications, a professional image, personality fits company culture, a well-rounded range of interests, and great communication skills.

What about ranting? Rants blow off steam and make you feel better right? Research has found people’s moods decline after reading rants, and after writing rants they became more angry, not less. Forum moderator Bill Horne describes ranting as “watching others being burned at the electronic stake as they abandon logic, courtesy, common sense and self-respect.” In the end no one feels better. Recruitment professional Kate Croucher says about candidates, “If they are sharing lots of interesting things, and making insightful comments or forming strong opinions, and interacting with others in a positive way, it shows their ability to rally people behind them and develop effective relationships.”

Before you post or comment in a personal capacity consider:

• Is it all about me? No one likes someone who only talks about themselves. The same applies in social media. Balance boasting with complimenting.
• Am I stalking someone? It is good to be driven and persistent but be careful not to cross the line into creepy. Don’t be too aggressive in outreach.
• Am I spamming them? Not everything or even the majority of what you post should ask for something. Don’t make everything self-serving.
• Am I venting or ranting? Venting and ranting may feel good, but research says it doesn’t help and no matter how justified you feel, it never presents you in a positive light. Do not post negative comments or gossip.
• Did I ask before I tagged? You had a great time and want to share those memories, but your friends, family or employer may have different standards. Check before you tag people in posts.
• Did I read before commenting or sharing? Don’t make yourself look foolish by not fully reviewing something you are commenting on or sharing with others. Don’t jump to conclusions.
• Am I grateful and respectful? Don’t take people for granted. Respond and thank those who engage with you.
• Is this the right medium for the message? Not everything should be said in social media. Consider the feelings of the other person. Some messages should be given in person, by phone or email.
• Am I logged into the right account? There are too many corporate examples of embarrassing posts meant for personal jokes that went out on official brand accounts. Always double check which account you are on. Don’t post personal information on brand accounts.

Professional Social Use

As seen above, social media has blurred our personal and professional lives. As an employee or contractor you should consider how your social use impacts your employer. When hired you should always refer to the company’s social media policy , but here are some general guidelines to consider. Not only should your social media not hurt the company, but many companies today see your active personal social media use as a medium of advocacy for the brand. Also, anything you post now may impact your professional image as a potential employee at another company or organization.

Before you post or comment as a professional consider:

• Does it meet the Social Media Policy? Most organizations have official social media policies that you probably received when hired. Don’t assume you know what the policy says. Many employees have been fired for not following company social media regulations. Make sure you know and follow employer or client requirements.
• Does it hurt my company’s reputation? No matter how many disclaimers you put on your accounts such as “views are my own” certain content and behavior will negatively impact your employer. If your bio states where you work, your personal account represents your employer.
• Does it help my company’s marketing? Employee advocacy is an important strategy. Have a positive impact on your company’s image and when you can advocate for your brand in social.
• Would my boss/client be happy to see it? You may not have “friended” your boss or client but a co-worker may have and your post is only a share or screen grab away. Even private accounts are never fully private.
• Am I being open about who I work for? It is good to post positive content about your employer and it is nice to receive gifts, but if you are trying to pass it off as unbiased opinion that is wrong. Be transparent about your financial connections.
• Am I being fair and accurate? Everyone is entitled to their person opinion, but if your opinion tends to always be unfounded and seems to have an agenda it will reflect negatively upon you. Criticism is welcome when it is constructive and opinion is backed by evidence.
• Am I being respectful and not malicious? People can get very insensitive, judgmental and angry in social media posts. That does not convey a professional image. Don’t post what you wouldn’t say in person. Even an outburst in person fades in memory, but a malicious post is there forever.
• Does it respect intellectual property? Not everything on the Internet is free. Check for or get permission to post company or client brand assets and content.
• Is this confidential information? As an employee or contractor you are granted access to privileged and confidential information. Don’t assume it is fine to share. Do not disclose non-public company or client information.

Brand Social Use

For those who are responsible for creating and sharing brand social media content there are additional considerations to ensure you are helping to meet business goals and following laws and regulations. With 92% of S&P 500, 100% of Down Jones companies active on social media and 91% of retail brands using two or more social channels chances are your company is participating in social media through brand accounts.

Before posting or commenting as a brand on a social account consider:

• Does it speak to my target market? Social media is unique from traditional marketing and requires a different perspective to be effective. Be sure to focus on your target’s wants and needs not yours.
• Does it add value? Social media only works if people view and share it. Make your content educational, insightful or entertaining to grab interest and draw engagement.
• Does it fit the social channel? Don’t post content ideal for Twitter on Instagram or Reddit. Each channel has its own culture and community. Make sure each post fits the channel’s environment, mission and policies or standards.
• Is it authentic and transparent? Trying to trick people into clicking a link or making a purchase will get you nowhere. Don’t hide or exclude any relevant information.
• Is it real and unique? Bots can automate tasks and be a great time saver, but use them for the right actions. Don’t use auto responses and create anything that could be perceived as spam.
• Is it positive and respectful? It may be fine to talk trash about competitors or complain about customers in the office, but not in social media. Don’t badmouth the competition or customers.
• Does it meet codes of conduct? As professionals we are part of trade associations that set standards of conduct. Be sure you are meeting these ethical standards such as the Word of Mouth Marketing Association’s Code of Ethics .
• Does it meet all laws and regulations? Government has been catching up with social media and have issued regulations and laws you must follow. See guides on requirements like the FTC social media endorsement guidelines.
• Does it meet the Social Media Policy? Most likely your brand or a client’s brand has a social media policy. Ensure you follow your own company standards.

The last consideration in all social media action from a personal, professional or brand perspective has to do with listening. A recent study showed that listening can influence up to 40% of a leader’s performance. Listening improves relationships and social media is based on relationships with friends, colleagues and customers.

The last question to ask before posting or commenting in social media is:

10. Have I listened twice as much as I am talking? Do you fully understand the person, organization or situation you are commenting about? We have two ears and one mouth for a reason. Taking the time to pause and listen has saved many a person or brand from putting their foot in their mouth and given valuable insight into creating successful social media efforts.

This guide just touches the surface of social media etiquette, ethics and professionalism. For formal legal advice you should consult the official documents or more in-depth resources. The lesson here is to take the time to ask questions and think before you post.

To consider the bigger picture in social media marketing Ask These Questions To Ensure You Have The Right Strategy .

11 thoughts on “ Social Media Etiquette & Ethics: A Guide for Personal, Professional & Brand Use. ”

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Excellent pointers to consider before posting a comment online. Having a sense of professionalism to your words is essential. Every thing you do will reflect to your brand’s reputation.

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