5 Easy to Make Social Media Gaffes

It’s way too easy to make mistakes on social media that can cost your reputation in a big way. That which was said in passing or a seemingly “clever” remark can swiftly turn into a tsunami of complaints that is not that easy to overcome.

The stories are legion among businesses of companies who’ve posted, replied, or used hashtags that generated plenty of negative publicity. Even though there is some truth in the old bromide attributed to P.T. Barnum, “I don’t care what people say about me as long as they say something.” The truth is that these days when social proof is a major determining factor in buying decisions, most can’t afford that luxury.

Since we depend so much today on social media word of mouth, let’s look at 5 ways you can help eliminate some of these social media mistakes.

5 Social Media Mistakes that Are All Too Easy to Make!

Being combative online – If you have a customer complaint and they bring it to your attention in one of your social media channels, this is an opportunity for you to shine rather than fight or hide. Take the high road, respond professionally, go the extra mile and remember that this type of person for most businesses represents a tiny percentage of customers. Whatever you do, don’t get into a shouting match online!

Not being present – If you’re the type who comes around once a month or so on your social channels, and expects this to be anything other than a waste of timetake this advice: Be present, be engaged, and be social. This only works if you are using the platforms to get your audience to know, like and trust you. Anything else is a waste of time.

Trying to buy fans – While there are many out there more than willing to sell you a slew of fans and followers, the reality is that this will only come to grief for you. They aren’t real, don’t know you from Adam, and won’t be useful when you need them. Do it the old fashioned way; earn it!

Too many pitches – You can and should market to your social following, but only after you’ve earned the right to by giving, contributing, engaging and winning trust. Then, only do so in about one out of five posts.

Giving the job to someone with no experience – One of the surest ways to have problems is to have a social media novice run your business accounts. Don’t trust this to anyone who is just getting started, as they will, through no fault of their own, make some mistakes, and you will pay for them. Hire experienced people, or train them up.