Social Media

I read an excellent blog post today about social media. strangers-with-business-cards by Brian Link.

The question posed (in my words), should you share your *brand*, meaning you, with anyone you meet? The parallel was like handing business cards to strangers.

While Brian was focusing on professionals twittering, blogging, posting to social networking sites, etc., this can hold value for both professionals and people enjoying Facebook, MySpace and other sites to connect with friends as well.

My take? Careful what you post. I have personally done online searches for people I am going to meet professionally before that first meeting and I know this is a common practice. Linked in now even offers reference searches. Anything posted may be there in eternity - or could at least be searched in backup files for an online provider if presented with a search warrant. More importantly, save yourself potential embarassment about that great party last night and think before you post.