Feeling Shatterproof? The Internet Will Determine That!
The internet was invented for military communication purposes, and then expanded to share data among scientists. Proper use works for most businesspeople today but has become a time-suck for others.
Rather than getting up and out to exercise, some choose to remain inside, steadfastly glued to their chairs for upwards of 12 hours a day, in anticipation of what comes next. Every day that presents is on repeat.
How lucky I am to have grown up without the constant on-line barrage of, in-your-face advertisements all vying to entice, salacious news reports driving traffic at whatever cost, the combative on-line behavior.
Since the internet became available to the public, the loss of self-control due to internet addiction runs rampant, feeding the overwhelming need to overindulge. Exhibitionism and shock value are most prevalent.
People are naturally drawn to titillation and sensationalism, we are witness to that every day in person, on the news or on the net. As industry professionals, it's best to remain a step above rather than crossing over.
Avoid blurring professional lines.
Leave the Golden Globes to the film industry and keep them covered up in any business situation. It is unnecessary to post semi-nude or soft porn on Facebook, especially when the brokerage name is prominently displayed.
The poser claims empowerment but looks more like a desperate attempt for attention. Besides being in very poor taste, it also may be an open invitation for the mentally unstable to plan a chance meeting (or vicious attack).
Disengage when tempted to expel.
Avoid verbal-purging on social media sites about clients to get sympathy, it can get back to them. Things go sideways, tempers flair, emotions ratchet, keep conversations offline. No true privacy exists, even in private groups.
There are endless advantages of adhering to a higher standard of professionalism while online. Choose words carefully, no amount of apology can take back the impact of some of them, once they are delivered.
Present your best self every day.
Remember, there are no do-overs on-line in business reputation building, it is a one-time event! Doing the best to make sure decisions are well thought out and informed can determine whether a career continues or ends.
People are watching you, that is a fact. Creating a positive online presence takes time with consistent marketing and advertising methods designed to grab the consumer's eye the right way for business sake.
Engaging in heated on-line conversations ill suits any businessperson today, tomorrow and any time into the future. Be the one who maintains good judgement in every way possible. After all, at the end of the day, it is the professional aspect that gains client referrals further down the line.
It really is up to you!
Bottom line, do you want to be OPEN For Business or CLOSED for OVER-DOING, OVER-INDULGING?
This is an entry to The January Challenge--Things we Have Lost to the Internet. Special thanks to Gary Frimann, CRS, GRI, SRES and Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Specialist for hosting!
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