A few important tips to remember while you are mingling in cyber-land:
1) Don’t be a user. It is certainly okay to do some bragging and promote yourself. Be sure to return the favor by congratulating others on their deeds, commenting on their blogs, and generally being friendly.
2) Yes, you want the world to meet you – but you are representing a PROFESSIONAL. Keep the intimate details of your life off of your profiles (If you absolutely must have an outlet to talk about your marital woes, engage in online affairs, etc, do so – where permitted – in a different profile and under another name!) Remember to present the face that you want your readers to see.
3) Be careful when discussing controversial topics. You know the things your parents told you when growing up – don’t discuss money, religion or politics. Unless you are building a reputation as a political satirist, financial consultant or religious leader – be very careful what you say. These are areas where you can (unintentionally) create a maelstrom that you can’t escape and you may turn off potential readers.
4) Do NOT whine about any negative experiences you had while writing your book, finding a publisher or marketing your work. Facts are facts and that is okay, but if you whine about the tediousness of a project or disappointments people will wonder why you are doing something you so obviously dislike.
5) NEVER insult your fans/readers, no matter what. Those are the people your livelihood depends on. People will want to reach out to you – yes, you become a celebrity when your name is in print – you don’t have to be reckless, but you should be nice, thank them for their compliments and comments and don’t belittle them.
6) Be careful when disseminating personal contact information – Most social network sites will allow you to receive private messages, similar to email, through the automatic filter of the site. If you choose to publicize a more direct email, consider establishing one just for your writing persona. And NEVER post your home address – use a post office box (preferably in a nearby town and not your own) if you need to give a snail mail address.
7) Most of all - be a real person. People will want to know YOU. Keep “friendships” two-way, be nice, treat people with respect, and remain humble.
~~~Writing Prompt~~~
Imagine that you are meeting, for the first time,
with a friend who you haven't seen for at least 10 years
- write approximately 3 paragraphs telling us about your conversation. Do a little bragging about your own accomplishments.
