The art of online conversation

Dubai "Just like no one can be perfect in the offline world, mistakes and slips are bound to occur when a brand, business or individual is communicating through social platforms online," Farrukh Naeem, Abu Dhabi-based social media consultant and digital strategist, told Gulf News.

He said it is important to tailor your interactions based on different social media channels. "Every social media platform and website has unique characteristics. Keep in mind what is acceptable and what is not on the given platform. For example, it might be perfectly fine to discuss business or offer a commercial opportunity on LinkedIn but on Facebook you might turn people off when they are having social conversations and you interrupt with a business message."

Write like you speak

He stressed the importance of "writing like you speak". He explained that social media gives users a chance to engage with people, not brands. He said it is also important to check facts before posting information. "Embarrassment on social media is instant when you post things that are not accurate or true. It also affects credibility."

Gopi Krishnan, the director at Dubai-based Orange Country, an online consulting firm, said that social media etiquette goes back to the basics. "We know the dos and don'ts in the real world — greet correctly, say please and thank you, chew with your mouth closed etc. On social networks too there are etiquette rules."

Krishnan proceeds to list a few. Appearance matters, he says.

Your profile picture shouldn't be a logo or avatar. Everyone likes to "see" who they are talking to. Use your real name and your own photo.

Separate business and pleasure by using different social media accounts. When stating personal views, it is vital to separate business and personal content so use different profiles for personal connections.

To avoid a reputational damage to your employer's business, do state "it's my personal view/opinion".

Never post questionable photos or videos of others without their permission.

Think before you act and/or react. Before posting something, ask yourself: "Would I say this face-to-face to all the people on my list?" If the answer is no, refrain. Also, do not react when you are angry or out of impulse as it may lead to negative posts.

Read content before posting; check for typos and grammatical errors.

Don't post anything that you don't want your boss, future boss, current client or potential clients to read.