Just Some Helpful Hints for Cyber Space Happiness

In my last blog post, I mentioned something I had been taught regarding whether or not you should write something down.  To recap…if you don’t want anyone to know something, don’t write it down.  Then, I started thinking about how that pertains to our ever increasing cyber space lives.  With the abundance of social networks like Facebook, I realized that there are a few basic common sense guidelines that can make us all a little happier in cyber space.  So, just because I am a helpful person I will share a few with you.

1.   If you don’t want comments, positive or negative, regarding your Facebook posts from friends and family, don’t post.  If you post something on your public wall be prepared for others to put their two- cents in. 

2.   Be aware of the photos and videos you post on the internet.  If you wouldn’t show the picture to your parents or grandparents, you probably shouldn’t post it.  And, remember, employers are increasingly checking out Facebook and MySpace to determine if they want to hire certain candidates.  I don’t think a school district would want to hire a teacher who has pictures of herself in a wet t-shirt contest posted on Facebook…I’m just saying.  And, taking the pictures off of a profile, doesn’t mean they are gone.  Once a picture is posted to the internet it will never go away.  These things can ruin a career, reputation, and life.  Our perfect examples are Rep. Christopher Lee (R-NY), and Rep. Anthony Weiner (D-NY).

3.   Forums like the “wall” on Facebook are not the place to make personal or overly emotional comments, statements, or requests.  If you have something of a sensitive nature to say to someone, use the message function.  No one wants a “wall” post from a “friend” about their significant other being seen with someone else.  Keep it private and direct.

4.   Cryptic posts will invariably illicit requests of “what do you mean?” and “what happened?”.  Be prepared to answer those questions.

I am sure there are more that I haven’t thought of, so please feel free to add your own.

Until next time….

Paulene