7 Damaging Sins of Social Media

When dealing with Social Media, it is a whole different world to many. You must be sociable, you must have information, and then your attitude is always a very important factor. Some of these "sins" are normal practices, and some are done by people just not paying attention. These are just some points that I have observed and gathered in the past few months that I wanted to share. Maybe you have noticed some of the same? Maybe some of these are your habits? Please read:

1. Screaming network with a clique motive - These people wear the badge of "Network", but are wearing the "Lone Ranger" hat. It is all about them, their people, and the people they grant "their approval" on. Social Media is networking, communications, crowd sourcing, connecting, reaching out, pointing in, providing info, and doing your part to contribute whether your are in business or by yourself. Many people do not understand this concept; they simply "think" they do. They use social media to where it is all about them, crush others who even seem to be walking down the same path; and do even worse if they are in the same geographical area. I have heard of companies that have helped establish a "spammer" account to attack others and discredit them. Is this their "alter ego"? No, this is who they really are. Talk about bad business and creating bad Karma! Beware of these cliques! Learn to really network by creating exposure for your business and reaching out to others! Do not only network with them who you adamantly agree with, those you "like", and those you know. There is a big difference between an open and closed network. Let yours be open!

2. Knowing, but not telling social media - Hanging social media over someones head is simply not right. Many people have heard about it and want to know more. Today, our culture and society is built off of information. You can go online and type any question you have into Google, Bing, Yahoo, Cuil or any of the other dozens of good search engines and find a wealth of information on just about every subject. If you know something more than the common person, open up and tell it. Share it with the people! The days of hoarding are over. Social Media is an open information system that bridges the gaps. Proclaim it so.

3. Having a critical social media attitude - Sometimes when we do not understand something, it is in our nature to attack it. A few minutes each day dedicated to learning new media and Internet communications would open anyone up to such a great world. Yes, even I remember the days when I would not touch email communications. I had my secretary (Tiff!) get on my computer, log in, and type out an email while I stood up, walked around and dictated. Then I would get excited after we were done and tell her "Send It!". Today, it is different. When I hear of something, especially when they say "new", I first think "opportunity" and then hit the computer to research the subject. Social media is the new superior form of connecting and communications. Drop the bad attitude and have a teachable spirit. You just might learn something new. Correction; you will learn something great and new, and love it. Social Media!

4. Wearing the "Big Head" - Have you ever met someone that thought that they were King of whatever? Growing up, there were kids who actually believed they owned the street we all lived on. I could use that as an inspiring thought, but not now. There are people in the Social media world who are anti-networkers and that snarl at people who learn something beyond them. They need to be the head honcho in everything. Oh, they give credit, but only when they are complimenting someone that they consider a lesser learned person. Ever had the big head? I have. I played baseball for a few weeks before they yanked me over to the All Star Team. I was excited and heartbroken at the same time. I was humbled. But when fans started cheering, even though it was only little league, I got the big head. I felt like Reggie Jackson! Having a big head is not that bad when you are a fair and just individual, but hand that big head over to some of these insecure gurus and it is all over from there. They use their big head to hurt, limit and criticize; and in turn damage social media.

5. Being a social media security bouncer - Social media is a learning curve and things are constantly changing. It is trial and error sometimes. We learn, teach, learn together, learn some more, and share our experiences. It is so funny that people think they have to tell people all of the time how to do it right, how their way is the best, and how everyone else is doing it wrong. They police the sites of others and base their networking off of slander. They lay in wait for someone to make a wrong move so they can jump in and subconsciously (and sometimes verbally) say "They are wrong, I am better". They actually believe that by hindering and "arresting" someone else in social media; they somehow become better. Not at all. Social media is a place where people live and let live. We may suggest or blog about tips, but who I am to knock or arrest someone else for their methods of operation? If you are on Twitter and follow everyone you can or follow everyone back, good for you. If you do not, then good for you too. Big Deal! Turn your "Officer" badge in and network with us.

6. Not working social media - Having new media and social media platforms and not using them anywhere near their potential is very hazardous. It is like having a beautiful new car that people have seen in the driveway, but for the most part it is hiding in the garage and barely used. You need to learn how to "Work It!" Push down on the gas and take Social Media for a spin. Balance, new content, and scheduling is very important for the growth of your business in social media. For some this seems like constant maintenance, but for us who have seen the power of new media; it is productivity and fun! The principle of sowing and reaping really takes hold here. What you put in, must come out! Start planting and working your social media platforms!

7. Not using social media - This "sin" is deadlier than them all. If I were drowning and there was a pencil, a quarter, a weight, or a life vest... I would grab the device that floats and that could support what I am attempting to do. Social media can not only save your business, but it can also land you in a whole new world with bigger and better opportunities. Not using social media is like trying to board a plane by waiting in the line at the grocery store. You will not make it to your destination! Your company will not fly! And the sad part is your business can even die.

Maybe it is time for your company to explore the many diversified angles of Social Media? Maybe you want to start simple small and build from there? Maybe Social Media is exactly what your business needs? Contact G Social Media for a custom plan for your business.