This is the third blog post of four in my “Online networking” series; to find the other posts start here.
I’ve been using the Internet for almost 20 years and have seen some great ways to use the Internet for networking, information gathering, and self promotion but I’ve also seen it used in a way that’s harmful to themselves, their company, friends and loved-ones. It’s important to know the risks.
When posting anything on any Internet website always assume that it will be there forever and can be read by anyone. Before you post anything ask yourself the question; Would I be happy for this to be read by my boss, co-workers, parents, grand-parents, kids, friends, husband/wife etc…? even if you think you’re sending the message to one person in private, mistakes do happen, the recipient can save the message and then at some point in the future publish it to everyone, or the site could break and display the message to everyone.
Be sure you know the person/people you are communicating with are who they say they are, don’t just go by their profile/photo.
Be careful how much information you post to the Internet or share with people in your network, ask yourself: Would I give this information to someone i just met on a bus/train, in a bar etc…?
Be honest. If you don’t know the answer to some-one’s question then say so.
Be courteous and constructive in your comments. No matter how much you hate the other person or what they say, rise above it and show your maturity and professionalism.
In Off-Line Networking there is a saying “Givers Gain” and in my experience this is so true. It’s fine to ask questions but you gain more benefit by helping others.
What experiences have you had in online networking? please leave a comment.
The next post in this series is Summary, other posts in this series;
Online Networking: Introduction
Online Networking: Tools and Websites
