Over-sharing – We’re all guilty of it at one point or another in our lives. Sometimes it’s just hard to keep our mouths shut. While over-sharing in the real world is one thing, it’s over-sharing in the virtual world that can really get you in trouble. We all have those Facebook friends who seem to be constantly posting about topics and opinions that you couldn’t care less about. It may seem like common sense, but some people just don’t have boundaries on social media. Sometimes, over-sharing can be annoying, but other times it can reach a whole new level – including safety issues. Do you know what you should and shouldn’t share online? Let’s look at the biggest no-no’s of a Facebook post.
What Your Facebook Friends Don’t Need to Know
Personal Information
We’re taught not to talk to strangers as kids, but somewhere along the way, we forget that strangers online are everywhere. Don’t have personal conversations or share detailed personal information on your Facebook wall or in your Facebook details. Any one can access that information; it’s simply not safe to post it. It’s also important to remember if you’re looking for a new job that employers often have software that can break through Facebook privacy settings, so those pictures of you chugging on St. Paddy’s Day may not be as private as you think.
Company Information on a Personal Facebook
Do not try to promote your business via your personal Facebook site. There are plenty of ways to promote your business using your business’ profile. Shameless advertising in the name of your business is not only tacky, but it’s also annoying. Remember, your company business is out there for everyone to read, and this includes your competitors, which is another reason why it’s so crucial to be careful when posting information.
Photos of Your Kids
Over 40% of users on Facebook don’t have restricted privacy settings. Are you one of them? If you are, then you should not be posting pictures of your kids, family or anything really near and dear to your heart on Facebook. You never know who’s at the other end of a computer screen. It’s hard to remember that anonymity online provides give people who shouldn’t be seeing your family photos courage they wouldn’t have in the real world. If you are going to share your family and friend’s photos online, make sure you do have your profile privacy settings on.
Your Address and Phone Number
Again, this may seem like a no-brainer, but for a lot of people, it’s not. Facebook automatically asks you for a phone number when you sign up, but that doesn’t mean you have to put it in. If you do like putting your phone number up in order to access your contacts, then make sure it’s private and only available for you to see it. It might be convenient for your friends to grab your number off your profile, but you never know who’s looking over their shoulder. And also – if they’re your friends, shouldn’t they already have your number?
Facebook is a fun and interesting way to get to new content, catch up with old friends and explore a whole new social medium. Just make sure you use it in a way that isn’t detrimental to yourself or your family/friends.
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See also: 8 Tips on How to Write a Truly Funny Facebook Status
