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Being rude on Facebook
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Have you ever “poked” an ex on Facebook, or rejected a “friend” request from a high school classmate you hated?
With the popularity of social networking sites like Facebook and MySpace, it can be a virtual social minefield. Britain’s Debrett’s — considered the last word on etiquette — has come up with some “golden rules” about online decorum that basically boils down to thinking before you act. Etiquette adviser Jo Bryant says, “Always employ your usual good manners when online, treating others with kindness and respect.”
How do you handle those awkward online moments? Share your stories.
(Photo Caption: A Facebook profile in an undated image courtesy of the company. REUTERS/Handout/Facebook)
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What I can’t stand is the people that don’t understand the difference between business networks,and social networks. When I go to a business conference and meet someone for the first time, and then get a Facebook invitation, it is annoying. People need to understand the difference between LinkedIn and Facebook!
I never respond to x’s online and if requested by someone I do not want to befriend, I ignore the request and say, “oh I never check that thing,” if confronted. Best to say little or nothing at all. Online drama is for yo momma.
I disagree with the claim that a social networking site can be “a virtual social minefield.” Just be clear and honest, don’t make assumptions, and don’t take anything personally.If someone requests to befriend me on Facebook but I wish to decline, I do so and send him or her a message explaining why. So far, I have only declined friend requests because I generally only befriend people whom I have actually met in real life. It is not a personal reason; it’s organizational.People can be offended by anything they want. Whatever you do, I don’t think lying is a good solution. Daddymack Fannypack, it sounds like you may be exchanging online drama for real-life drama, which is much worse, and much more…real.
People can represent themselves any way they like online. That’s why I usually only befriend people I’ve actually met in real life.It might be important to note that not all Facebook profiles are necessarily real people. It is very possible for advertisers to use a Facebook account to promote their product or to investigate the interests of their customer base. They can put up an attractive profile picture and send friend invitations to thousands of people (in their profile’s network area, to make it more believable). I do not know if this actually takes place, but it is very possible.This article, “Are You For Real, Monica Rockle?” attempts to point out a possible fake Facebook identity used for “viral marketing:”http://coolrulespronto.wordpr ess.com/2008/03/23/monica-rockle/
The people that want to facebook “everyone they meet one time” are so annoying. Do you really have 681 friends? What is wrong with you? How do you keep up all that?
Ugh! I’ve been used! I’m just joking. You’re welcome! You wrote an interesting article. That’s what links are for.I guess it’s good that the real photo subject for Monica Rockle’s profile picture found out about her photo being misappropriated. I was sorry to be the bearer of creepy news.
really interesting