Avoid these Faux Pas in your Business Social Media

DIY Sprocket Solutions

I've had severe secondhand embarrassment for questionable posts – and brands are not immune to social media faux pas. Do me a favor and try to avoid these “don’ts.” 

Questionable humor
You may think your off-color jokes are hilarious, but remember that your brand’s social media audience is not your posse. Is that the reputation you want for your business? A little humor is great for engaging with folks online, but double-check that you aren’t being offensive and actually turning off potential customers.

Thoughtless hashtags 
Did you know that hashtags can actually be harmful if not used carefully? It’s important to research what is trending with a particular hashtag before you attach your brand's name to it. Also, don’t overload your posts with too many hashtags because it looks spammy and unprofessional. Finally, know that using a consistent hashtag for your brand may come back to bite you later if people begin using that hashtag to complain about your business.

Polarizing views
As a business, taking a political stand on occasion can make sense. Just remember that plenty of people will be more than willing to push back with snide comments or even a boycott of your business. Before making any off-the-cuff commentary or deliberately taking a stance, think through the pros and cons and keep your professional social media separate from your personal accounts.

Unread shares
Don't repost anything you haven't read or you may be unpleasantly surprised. Sharing someone else’s content, even if it seems relevant at first glance, signals that you recommend it to your readers. You don't want to be known for directing them to poorly written and researched articles or to something even worse.

Poor grammar
Prospective customers need to like and trust you before buying from you. Would you trust a travel agency that didn’t know how to spell “agency?” It pays to put effort into showing how professional and trustworthy your business is. Even simple mistakes in your posts can make customers wonder if you’ll overlook small details when working with them.  

Social media marketing is a tremendously important tool for success when done correctly and every expert recommends it as part of your strategy. Poor social media skills, however, may provide no support for your business or even actively damage it. It can help to set appropriate standards and practices for your brand so the whole team knows and follows them and be sure to stay aware of what’s happening on your platforms. If you don’t have time to keep up with your business's social media, let Sprocket take over the task. Call us today to learn more!

This article is an update to “Social Media Don’ts” dated 4/15/2015. 

Photo by Ekrulila

Breanne BannonBreanne Bannon

Breanne is a Content Writer, Social Media Marketeer, and Sales Associate for Sprocket Websites.

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