Share With Care

My class this week discussed a variety of scenarios in which companies should have double checked their posts prior to sharing with the world. Those responsible for a company's social media postings need to be extra cautious of their words and aware of what is going on in society. We discussed how a company should never use a natural disaster or event as a way to gain exposure. Using events that are unpredictable is never a good idea. The likelihood of insulting consumers greatly increases with such uses.  

Check Before You Post

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Companies need to ensure they are precise with their word choices and spelling. Not only can mistakes offend consumers, but basic spelling and grammar errors can hurt the company image. Who trusts a company that appears careless and uneducated? What a company posts is an extension of their brand and what they offer. Consumers are more likely to positively view a company that is attentive and accurate in what they share. This mindset not only applies to a company but also to individuals and their own personal "brands" of themselves. Employees should be thinking before they post because they are an extension of a company, especially when they mess up. I believe companies have a responsibility to remind employees that they need to reflect the company and their values. Everyone makes mistakes, but thinking ahead with care prevents avoidable mishaps.

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Nothing Is Private

The best way I can stress the importance of thinking before you as a company, employee or individual posts something to the internet is by discussing the recent hacking in society. A hot topic right now has been the hacking of celebrity photos and snap-chat users' photos. Even though companies are not typically using snap-chat, this example shows how easy it can be for somebody to hack with technology today. Your image and brand can be broken so easily and quickly. It is vital people realize that nothing is private anymore. Companies need to be consistent with their values and best demonstrate them to employees.