NSW Premier Barry O’Farrell has called for stricter legislation on social media in light of the recent defamatory attacks by Twitter trolls on TV host Charlotte Dawson and West Tigers captain Robbie Farah.
News.com.au reports Mr O’Farrell is urging the Government to implement stricter punishments for Twitter trolls who write defamatory and hurtful comments on Twitter.
This highlights many people and businesses have forgotten when communicating on social media the normal rules of communication etiquette still apply. Just because you can remain anonymous doesn’t mean you can forget to use your good manners.
Here are some tips to help your business maintain proper social media etiquette.
Be professional: If you are using social media as a business then you need to ensure your communication is always professional. Before posting anything stop and think about whether the tone of the post is suitable for your customers or clients. Ask yourself the question, “Would I say these things in real life to a client or customer?”
While it can be tempting to become over-friendly with followers online, think about your type of business and how casual you want to come across. You can still be conversational and friendly on social media just remember to be professional.
Never criticise others: The comments you make on social media can be accessed by a large number of people. If you make a negative comment about a business, customer or client it is likely they will see it.
Talking about another business, customer or client in a negative way online will alienate people and give your business a bad reputation. Always be polite and respectful to others and in return, you will be treated with respect.
Listen to your followers: Listen to your followers and interact with them. This means you shouldn’t just post information and promotional material, without responding to your follower’s posts. Whether they have asked you a question through Twitter or made a particularly interesting comment on your blog, people like it when the person on the other side of the computer screen is paying attention. Social media is a two-way conversation, just like in the real world.
Post relevant content: The content you post on social media should be relevant and interesting to your followers. It should also add value to the conversation you are participating in. Your followers will be happy to have a conversation with you when you post content they can connect with.
Communicating on social media is just like talking to someone face-to-face so make sure you are polite and respectful and don’t post anything you may regret later.
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Sydney Social Media and Public Relations Agency, CP Communications blends cutting edge offline and online PR and social media to help you gain a competitive advantage. Contact us today. For more great tips visit our website www.cpcommunications.com.au.
