Suggestions for Facebook Success

I joined the Facebook bandwagon before it exploded. Just when we understand it, they make changes. Despite the changes here are a couple basic tidbits that I think will ensure success.

1. Don’t open links and if you’re sharing one, add a note to verify this link is really from you and not a virus.

I can’t believe the people that click on the links to learn who visited them the most, to receive something from Olive Garden, the list is endless.  Nine times out of ten these links are bad. Clicking on them will usually spread the link to all your FB friends. Just don’t click on it. If it sounds too good to be true…it usually is.  The iPad offer is a virus, too.  Don’t fall for it!

2. Don’t automatically add people to your FB group.

I know, the functionality is there but I can tell you among writers and authors this act is frowned upon. Writers are on deadline and need to control their FB activity.  When you add them to a group you are setting them up for e mail alerts and discussions they might not have time to be a part of.  Let that be their decision.  If you want them in your group, why not send them an invite?

I’ve been added to groups and for my local church, I understand. However for the womens’ groups that added me without asking and posted several times an hour, it became irritating fast.  I know I can adjust the settings but the best choice is to ask people to join your group.  Don’t assume.

3. Realize when you post something on someone’s wall or your own it is for the world to see.

High school and college people on FB: when you share your party pictures that include your underage drinking, I see it. That means law enforcement people have the ability to see it, too. When you air your drama, I see it.  When you cuss someone out, I see it.

Yes, I can delete you and sometimes I do. But I care enough to tell you when you want that job, your potential employer IS going to check your FB page out. When you want to do something for me and I say no thank you, chances are it is because you’ve bragged about being irresponsible and I don’t think I can trust you. Prove me wrong and not only not post those things, how about not do them?

Facebook is a great tool for social media if you know how to use it in the right way. I’ve been able to stay close to family, connect with friends and for me, share my ministry with people worldwide I otherwise would never have met. I’m able to encourage others and share good news and resources.

In fact, with my birthday coming up later this month I was even able to spread the word about a cause I believe in: Heart of God International’s Bibles for Soldiers Ministry. Donations help military chaplains put Bibles and study materials into US and allied soldiers’ hands in their native  language.  I know a few people set to deploy and participate in the Adopt a Platoon Program, so providing Bibles for soldiers is personal to me. If you want to learn more, check my Facebook Page out.

Are we FB friends?  You can find me here.

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