Netiquette For The Social Network

As an older student, I am new to social media. I have been an Information Technology Professional since about the time computers were invented (yes – I know how to punch cards and have done “IPL” using actual hexadecimal commands) but the new functionality of computers as a social meeting place is somewhat new to me. That is why I have chosen to explore the “Netiquette” – the rules of the road for this forum. One of the best sites I have found on this topic is http://www.albion.com/netiquette

While there are many types of Social Meeting places on the internet, I am going to explore one that has been very beneficial to my professional career. It is a network of professionals known as Linkedin (www.linkedin.com/). According to the “about” tab in the Linkedin website, their membership consists of over 90 million business professionals worldwide. They also have executive members from every 2010 Fortune 500 company. (http://press.linkedin.com/about/) . My own Linkedin network consists of former and present coworkers from throughout my career.

When I created my profile and began accepting and inviting people to my network, I gave a lot of thought to the image I wanted to present. I discovered that the “Netiquette”, just like etiquette, is more formal on a business network like Linkedin then on a purely social network like Facebook. It is important to remember to use your best office behavior. During the interview process, many seasoned IT professionals will direct prospective employers to their Linkedin page to view recommendation from current and former business associates. Thinking of your Linkedin profile as an extension of your resume really dictates some common-sense netiquette rules:

1. Don’t post anything that you would not want your current or next boss to
read.

2. Be cordial in your all of your communications.

3. When posting a photo, make sure it shows you in an attitude that is
professional (No night at the bar or bachelor party photos)

4. When inviting people to join your network, if it has been a long time since
you have had contact or if there is a chance the individual may not remember
you, make an introduction with your invitation.

5. When writing recommendations

a. Be truthful and factual.

b. Check with your employer. Some companies have policies about professional
recommendations

Always remember, the social networks can be your best friend or your worst enemy in a job search. With sites like Linkedin, it is easy to give a prospective employer a view in to your past professional relationships, but also remember, the internet is forever. Be careful what and how you post.