Social Butterflies

February 23, 2010  |   Posted in Blog   |   0 Comments   Tags: social networking, twitter

Are you that caterpillar that is reluctant to come out of the Internet cocoon?  Well, rightfully so, you have been bombarded with a new platform or device every day that keeps you in your safe and comfortable shell.

Whether you know the difference between a net book or Facebook is beside the point.  But, if you want to start reaching those Gen X’s and Y’s you’re metamorphosis will have to start now.  Because what is about to sprout are the Gen Me’s – and then it is inevitable…you would be faced to break out of your cocoon.

So my suggestion to you is to start slow. Don’t feel the need to purchase every new gadget, visit the hottest new website or follow the most famous celebrity on Twitter.

Just visit the websites you currently frequent such as Yahoo! and Google, and explore their site a little more.  Create an alias and join their conversations by commenting on a blog post you enjoyed reading or better yet, from there you can create a Facebook page.  You’ll be surprised to find that there are about 200 people you actually know who are anxiously waiting to be your friend.

Now that you’re ready to spread those wings…let me give you five most annoying types of social networkers.   And yes, these were actual comments that “friends” of mine posted in the last week.

1. The I-Have-To-Tell-You-What-I’m-Doing-Every-Minute Bore. “I just flossed my teeth and found a piece of bagel.” “I’m stuck in traffic listening to Stevie Nicks.” “I wonder if it will be sunny or rainy today.” Just know, those who are following you don’t care.
2. The Shameless Self-Promoter. There is a distinct difference about being excited about a recent achievement and providing daily postings about how great you are. “I just ran 13 miles in less than an hour. I’m a beast!”
3. The TMIer. Those who provide Too Much Information.  Enough said.
4. The Need-A-Stroke Baiter. “People were so mean to me today, can you believe it?” “I am so glad this day is over, I can really use a pick me up.” These comments are just a few samples of those who can take some lessons from Stuart Smalley.
5. The Ongoing Inviter. “Support My Cause.” “Sign My Petition.” “Join this Group.” Friends appreciate you want to spread the word about worthy causes, but trust me, they just want to be your friend not part of a million-person march.

Author: Oshi