Are You Sharing These Things on Social Media? Here’s What You Should Avoid!
Social media is a key part of how we connect with others. It has greatly helped with building relationships, entertainment, and even our businesses. However, there are things you should not post on social media, as they might cause problems.
1. Private Or Classified Information
If someone shares private or sensitive information with you, never post it on any public platform. Always make sure that what you’re sharing is meant for the public to see and doesn’t violate anyone’s privacy. Before posting, think carefully about whether the information is something everyone should know. It’s important to respect others’ privacy and avoid sharing details that could cause harm or embarrassment.
If you are managing social media accounts for clients, ensure your accounts are distinct from theirs. Mixing personal opinions, casual posts, or humor with client-related content can harm your professional reputation and the brand you represent.
2. Personal Conversations
Building on the previous point about not sharing private information, personal conversations should never happen in places where others can see them. Even if the chat is harmless, it’s not something others want to read. If it turns into gossip or reveals personal issues, it can damage trust and make you seem like someone who shares too much. This could hurt your reputation and relationships.
3. Embarrassing Pictures
This includes posting embarrassing photos of yourself or others. Just like it would be rude to embarrass someone in person, it’s also inappropriate to do it online. Always remember that what you share online can affect both your reputation and that of others. Avoid posting anything that could become a source of embarrassment later.
4. Negative Opinions About Your Job
Talking badly about anyone on social media usually causes problems, and it’s worse if you talk badly about your boss, coworkers, or clients. This could even cost you your job. Keep your opinions to yourself and stay professional online.
5. Inappropriate Photos Or Videos
Let’s be clear—don’t post or send pictures of yourself in revealing or inappropriate clothing online. If these images end up with your friends or employer, they can hurt your reputation.
Also, talk to your teenage children who use social media about this. The decisions they make now could affect them later in life.
6. Too Much Information (TMI)
There are certain personal and uncomfortable topics we usually keep to close friends. These topics should also be avoided on social media. Social media isn’t the place to share embarrassing details or discuss your love life. Keep in mind that it’s harder to convey your true meaning online, and many comments can be misunderstood.
7. Financial Status Or Bragging
Nobody likes someone who brags, and boasting online can quickly make you lose friends or followers. Talking about the big bonus you got at work is not the right way to behave, whether online or offline. However, celebrating success is fine. A better way to share would be by posting about the great day you had at work, where your boss recognized your hard work.
8. Drinking Or Drug Use Photos
This may seem like common sense, but it’s important to mention: avoid posting pictures of yourself drinking too much or using drugs. Employers, potential clients, and colleagues will see these and may not take you seriously as a professional. I’m not saying you can’t share a picture of yourself with a glass of wine at dinner—that’s fine. Just use your judgment. If the photo makes you look careless or irresponsible, it’s better not to post it.
And just to make it clear—never post pictures of yourself doing anything illegal. Once it’s online, it’s there forever.
9. Relationship Issues
Is there anything worse than watching a couple argue online? While it might be entertaining for some, don’t let this happen to you. You’ll probably regret sharing your personal problems once things calm down. Plus, your followers or friends may start to think differently of you because of it. Respect your partner and avoid talking badly about them online.
10. Personal Contact Information
Businesses and brands should share their contact information online, but you don’t need to do the same personally. The internet isn’t always safe, so it’s best to avoid posting your address, phone number, and email if you can. The most important one to protect is your home address.
If you do decide to share contact information, make sure your privacy settings are set to a level you’re comfortable with. You can restrict your contact details so that only your friends can see them, instead of everyone.
Your online reputation can have a big impact on your life. If you use common sense about what you share, social media can be a great opportunity for you.
The next time you post, ask yourself: Is this okay? Could it hurt someone or change how people see me online?
Virtual Professionals 