10 Simple Social Media Tips
Cynics say we live in an age where we are in need of constant connection, and this 24×7 hunger for attention has given birth to the much talked about and yet quite limitedly understood concept of – Social Networking. So they say! But, on a more personal note, I think Social Networking is an intriguing world in itself – I mean who would have ever thought that the old English adage: “A penny for your thoughts” would manifest itself, and how. You have the – Twitters, Buzzs, Facebooks, G-Statuses, – scuffling interfaces, churning upgrades, and pushing promotions, all for a piece of your mindspace. Wow! Makes you feel like a celebrity doesn’t it? 
In the beginning finding your way through social platforms might be a little alien (tottering close to awkward), but once you’re through with the basics, trust me, it can be quite addictive!
I’m no Social Media guru, but here are a few points that would help make your experience a whole lot more interesting:
1. You are your own spokesperson: (I believe I’ll make a damn good spokesperson someday – I see the improvement in my tweets already J. But that’s besides the point…) Remember social platforms give you a chance to voice your opinions. It’s pretty much on the same lines as having your quote taken by a media publication. So, when in the Social Media limelight, make the most of your words. Let them be Confident, Individualistic and Honest.
2. Be Imaginative: Set your creative side free. (It’s been chained too long.) Use expressions and emoticons. Words can speak you know – Aha! Serious
3. Use discretion: While the entire ‘my-private-life-is-public-knowledge’ attitude may seem to suit you, remember that this is not your personal media company. It is always advisable to be discrete (and if possible quiet) about super-personal goss. Note – Public Memorandums don’t make you a Diva!
4. Regular does not mean Obsessed: Do not over-do it. Please! A minute by minute update is quite unnecessary and frankly seems quite desperate for attention (unless you’re planning to call yourself the Britney Spears of Social Networking.) Also, it is perfectly fine to take a few days off from the routine of updates. Believe me, the world will continue to go round.
5. Information is Good: Informative updates are always welcome – for eg, specific to a particular event, or (cursing through) a traffic jam at some location in the city, or a healthcare tip, etc
6. Think Social: What did you expect? We are talking about “Social Networking” after all. So always keep the bigger picture in mind. Perfect channel to vent your disappointment in the political authority, or voice your support for the invoking of the Essential Services Maintenance Act, or leave a blank message representing speechlessness at Kasab’s delayed verdict.
7. Relevance Helps: Topical discussions are always hot favourites. You of course can’t be talking of Mango prices in the month of December (coming to think of it, it would be a weirdly interesting topic, but yet…) Keep it relevant, and keep it focussed.
8. Interact – don’t stalk: Yes, Social Stalkers exist! Don’t join the fray please. Interact with people whose thought process, profiles, personalities you like, but do not stalk them by compulsive comments on every single update.
9. Be original: Use your own mind, your own ideas. It is completely fine to draw inspiration from someone else’s quote now and then, mind you – just now and then. However, if you’re a “CtrlC + CtrlV” addict, atleast share credit. It’s the least that can be expected.
10. Make your own rules: Pointers are meant to simply point in the right direction. Beyond that the road is all yours – so make your own rules. Like I said Social Media is an intriguing world, just go explore it.
