Social media has many people expressing their views on almost every subject. But others take the platforms to vent and complaining through social media if they were dissatisfied with a service, product, or person. But what is the right or wrong way to do it? Others do it to chase followers and others for likes. Some even buy Instagram likes. But, before you unleash your discontent. You must know how to do it, when and be sure that you are doing it. Below are social media rules to follow when complaining through social media or reacting to something or someone.
1. Reach out to companies directly
If you have a problem with a company’s service or product. Reaching them through social media is their best bet to get a response. Also, you can check to see where the company is most active. Some companies respond faster to a customer complaint on Instagram and others on Twitter. Others respond more on Facebook. Know where to air your grievances instead of going to all their platforms.
2. Don’t be afraid to unfriend or unfollow
Sometimes you may have followers or friends who bug you on social media. Do not be afraid to unfriend or block them. Social media is for sharing ideas, social connections, and networking. But some comments can be irritating. In such a case, unfriend or unfollow anyone every six months that do not have a positive, healthy, or entertaining thing to contribute. Plus, you do not have to explain yourself. In this way, you protect the energy of your space and personal brand.
3. Know when to leave a bad review
You have a complaint about something you bought online. For instance, if it is for clothing, leave a negative review on the company’s website instead of on social media. This is vital, for at least 90% of customers rely on online reviews before purchasing anything. Plus, it is easier and quicker for companies to respond here. In this way, you practice social media etiquette in leaving a review at the right place to help other consumers and notify the company.
4. Avoid posting when angry
Posting on social media is free. But when you are angry, it is best to avoid posting anything. Remember, this is a public space, and your posts need to be thoughtful and not in the heat of the moment. Plus, it is a part of social media etiquette to avoid posting when upset. And what seems like a big deal today may not be a big one tomorrow. Try or remember this etiquette rule to be mannerly on social media at all times.
5. Never complain about work-related issues
It is not worth complaining through social media about work issues. More so if your coworkers are your friends or followers on social media. Saying the wrong thing is one way to cause awkward work dynamics and cost you your job. Today, when you check on social media, you can find many cases of people who lost their job. For posting about their companies on social media. Plus, this is not a proper way to deal with social media and your job concerns.
6. Don’t complain about family and friends
Some people mention names. But even when you do not mention names, it is vital to protect family and friends around social media. So, posting tweets or a status alluding to friends or family will damage relationships. Plus, others are watching, and no one likes this habit. It is better to approach them and talk to them one on one and sort out your issues than air all your dirt on social media. Venting about friends and family on social media is not good manners, and it is best to stop and apologize if you ever did. You should also realize. If you send it out, it will come back and haunt you.
7. Make all public comments respectful
You can enjoy and engage in a healthy debate, whether about plumbing or a presidential candidate. But everyone should be respectful to everyone’s point of view. Plus, as you comment on somebody’s status, they have the power to delete your comment. Disagreeing with someone’s social media post is okay. But respond diplomatically or approach them privately.
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