Facebook Etiquette

@WeddingQuestion sent me a question about Facebook usage. I think it is important to discuss what is appropriate and what isn't when it comes to Facebook.

Comments:
Imagine yourself at a party, everyone is there, your family, friends, coworkers, I mean everyone. Now a group of you are talking, are there some things you wouldn't say? This is how you should go about Facebook comments. Whether it is a wall post or a picture comment make sure that what you have typed is something that you wouldn't mind others hearing you say. So if you want to gossip about someone, do it in a message. You wouldn't say that publicly at a party, you would say it quietly in a corner i.e. a message. If it's something you don't mind everyone hearing, then go for it, comment away. When it comes to foul language, it's the same thing. If you speak like that with everyone then use it, but if you wouldn't want people to hear you use certain words, then don't do it publicly. Would you say "I'm sooo sshhittffaaceedd right now." In front of your boss/coworker/mom? Are they one of you friends? Well you just did. Even though people use Facebook for personal reasons, it is a public platform by nature, so act accordingly.

Pictures:
Stop it with the double fisted bottles! Stop it with the shots and glassy eyes. Stop it with the bongs and dusty upper lips. Why would you do this? No one needs to see this with the exception of the people you are out with. Don't post pictures of you doing things that you shouldn't be doing. If you smoke or drink and there is a picture of it, fine. But don't make it a big deal, don't look like a fool while doing that. Also you don't need a caption indicating that you are on your 17th shot. I understand you won't remember but ask someone, don't rely on your mobile uploads to remember the night.

Status:
Use this for news articles, tid bits, or other novelties. Don't use this to complain about your awful life or to tell me you are at the gym. Don't defame people in your status either. Personally I hate statuses (use twitter), and I rarely use them. But the worst is when one person is covering your entire news feed with their ramblings and spelling corrections. Check it.

Stick to the party scenario and you will always be safe. Moreover, anything you say in casual conversation is fine on Facebook. Even if some people wouldn't agree with it. Just be sure not to feel brave because you are behind a screen and say things that you wouldn't say in mixed company.

Hope that helps @WeddingQuestion

-The Young Gentleman