If it’s a professional account, behave like a professional. (But still have fun.)

The concept of using Facebook and Twitter for professional purposes is still a bit foreign, particularly outside of the technology and entertainment worlds. Even companies that may have accounts tend to underuse them. I’m not sure why, though I assume it’s possibly a misconception that no one will read the content. Also, people like my dad for instance, still don’t quite “get” Twitter. And he’s a computer guy.

“Character is a subtle thing.”
(especially when you only have 140 of them)

So, what is Twitter, anyway? It’s, at the core, a microblogging platform. This means, it’s devised to allow users to communicate a thought in 140 characters or less. It’s a challenge. But it’s also a good brain sharpener. Think about it, how do you condense that you’d like to say into a single sentence? What points are most important? What do you want readers to remember? Also, a tweet can be used to link back to a longer article or post. Blogs can be synced through an application like TwitterFeed and every time you make a post, it’ll automatically route a link to your Twitter or Facebook account.

Keep it public and keep it clean.

Now, I’ll get into why you’d even want to blog in a later, more expansive post. For now, we’ll just assume that you have one, with wisdom and tidbits to share about yourself or your business. Let’s also assume that you use Twitter and Facebook on a regular basis, maybe to keep up with family and friends, maybe to play Farmville, maybe both. If that’s the case, run wild, have a good time. But, possibly consider making it friends only, just to keep the juicy stuff off the airwaves.

However, if you’re trying to network professionally, even just to keep up with contacts, keep it public and keep it clean.

I've come across a couple smaller businesses who Tweet on a regular basis, usually about relevant up and coming topics. But, on occasion, I see these accounts used for obvious personal business. Twitter is free. Gmail is free. Set yourself up with separate accounts for work and play. It looks better and is less likely to get you fired in the long run.

This does not equal “keep it boring”.

In fact, a page or feed that regularly posts fun or interesting content will keep people coming back. But, keep in mind that “regularly” doesn’t mean every five minutes. People will begin to feel like it’s spam and, if they’re polite enough not to just remove you from their list, they’ll discreetly hide your feed so they don’t have to look at it. As long as the content is timely and somewhat relevant, though, you’re in the clear. Consider keeping up with other blogs and websites that may be of interest to those who follow you so you’re well versed in the latest and greatest on a specific topic.

Overall, keep things fresh. This is the internet. Information is instantaneous. The more informed you are, the closer you’ll be to the cutting edge.

Further Reading.
(Don’t worry, there will be no discussion questions.)

6 Ways to Score a Job Through Twitter

5 Facebook profile pics that make you look like a tool

The internet's not just for creepers and gamers.

The web has a reputation for fostering some unseemly activity over the years. Granted, with the advent of social media and parent-friendly networking sites such as Facebook, the general population had realized that just about anyone can have a jolly old time on the internet.

Still, however, I've noticed that the average user isn't quite aware of how to maximize the convenience (and overall fun factor) of the web to enhance their day to day lives. And I'm talking both personally and professionally.

How?

Start by checking back in once in a while. I'll be making posts about everything from viral video to Twitter celebrities and explaining how YouTube will help you understand inside jokes in contemporary television.

And, just between us, I could use the motivation to blog on a regular basis. It's good for me.