Lately I've been browsing through more blogs than usual written in an authoritative tone stating "the etiquette for social media," as if such authors are somehow experts on how everyone else should or should not portray themselves online.
Having done social media professionally for organizations as well as carrying my own personal accounts, I have a real issue with anyone proclaiming to be or act as an "expert" in either arena. You can never be an expert in social media because it is constantly changing. To self-proclaim this title is to assert that you are done learning. And while you can certainly advise and mentor organizations in navigating social media, this guidance should stop with companies. Let people use their personal accounts however they want to!
The beauty of social media for personal use is that it allows us to express our individuality and share our lives to the extent that we choose. This is complemented by the fact that we have total freedom to customize our newsfeed and networks by blocking those who we'd rather not interface with and friending those who enhance our lives. This is no different than in person when we choose to follow up on that coffee date, or let the invite slide.
Those who carry negative rants about how "annoying" or "poorly" others are using social media, can -- pardon me -- shut up. You are the ultimate offender of all "offenders" by wasting your time browsing through your network only to complain and put down others. I have a feeling you do this in person, too -- questioning what that person is wearing or gossiping about your friend's latest relationship change or job move. You're probably the type of person that just loves to complain, and now you're taking to the Internet to bring your negativity into this digital arena. Well I'm sick of it.
Thus, my No. 1 "rule" for social media etiquette is this: Share what you want to share, engage how often you want to engage, unapologetically be yourself, and be tolerant to others' differences.
