Last year one third of all divorce petitions in the UK contained references to Facebook. It was involved in inappropriate comments, flirting, gossip and affairs. I also saw that research indicated that 76% of Facebook pictures showed people that were intoxicated. Frankly, that seems a bit difficult to verify, but even if that is partly right, a worrying picture is emerging.
Many people don't know how to behave properly online.
I'll let the marriage counsellors deal with the marital stuff. Instead let's think about the business implications. You are investing time and money in social media because that's the modern way to build business relationships. Quite right. But take a moment to think about what you are actually sharing on social media. In amongst the special offers, news and advice, are there snipes at awkward or bad paying clients? Is there flirting, rudeness and sleazy gossip?
Social media is all about building relationships just as in other forms of networking. You would not turn up to a business meeting dirty, drunk and rude. So don't portray a similarly delinquent image online.
If you really need to get something off your chest, go to the pub with your trusted mates, just like we always did. And make sure no one captures it all on a smartphone!
