Members were treated to an engaging talk on the pros and cons of Social media by member, Kate Ashton on Thursday June 17th at the Highland Society. Kate is a leader in using Social media, particularly Facebook, as an integral part of her occupation as a Real Estate Agent - but as she mentioned, there are some down sides. See "Read more..." for 10 valuable pieces of advice on using Social media.
Kate reported that Social media has been a real advantage to her in her work, and a great source of enjoyment in her life, but she had some advice about things to do to avoid some of the pitfalls of Social media use.1. Don't be friends on Facebook with someone you wouldn't be happy to invite into your home
2. Remember that your Social media profile is available to everyone, so keep it really simple so people don't get access to more information about you than would be known anyway.
3. If you go on holidays, don't talk about the fact that you are away from your home unless you have someone house sitting there and looking after it.
4. Change all your social media passwords every three months and have a different password for every account.
5. If someone will talk to you on Facebook, but not talk to you in the street, "unfriend" them - periodically cull your so called "Friends" list until you just have the people you actually like.
6. Give your Social media log in details to your children so they can get in and close your accounts if you drop off the perch
7. Remember that what you write or show on most Social Media will be there forever and may well come back and bit you on your backside
8. Be very careful about giving your opinions about issues on Social media, particularly on politics or religion because there will always be angry keyboard warriors who will tear you to shreds
9. Remember that what is claimed on Social media is not necessarily or even likely to be the "truth" or expert opinion
10. Remember to have breaks from Social media because it is known to be addictive - ensure you have "real" interactions with others