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The Reality of Social Networking
Daneen Skube
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Q. Many of my coworkers are going to social networking seminars. They come back telling me I need to get on Twitter,
A. Having a Web site or some online business presence is extremely helpful to advancing your career. However, no one you work with really needs to know where you are every minute of the day or see that picture of you drunk at your last party.
The Internet has created a unique problem and opportunity for our careers. On one hand, people in
If you are going to have information about your personal life on the Internet, you need to carefully consider the impression it makes on people you work with. Sure, it's a kick to post your vacation adventures online, then again what do these photos or information tell people about you as a professional.
You also want to be aware that what is on the Internet (unlike
Before you hit the upload or send button, you should reflect upon the fact that Internet postings are like The Rolling Stones, they will be around forever. If you can't live with what you are about to upload, hit the delete key.
Once you've carefully considered your privacy, your professional reputation, and the consequences of putting yourself on the Internet, brainstorm what skills, experience and education you can offer an employer.
Then use the Internet to showcase why you are the best thing since sliced bread. Everyone (including employees) can build a simple Web page. If you have a budget, a Web designer can really polish up your online image with a wide variety of bells and whistles.
The real challenge of the Internet is it forces us to examine the boundary between our personal and professional lives. If we present one façade at work and the opposite personality at home, we have to carefully filter our real selves or we'll hurt our careers. If who we are at work and home is congruent, we can reveal more of our private side.
Eventually the Internet may have the positive social effect of making us realize we are all more transparent then we think. Imagine a business world where deception is impossible, the truth is obvious, and accountability unavoidable.
Q. I'm tired of not being appreciated! Is there anything wrong with telling my coworkers and boss I'm sick of being taken for granted?
A. Yes, delete the part where you accuse your team of hurting you and focus on letting them know what you want.
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(c) 2009 Daneen Skube