You are what you post!

We’ve all heard the old saying, more than likely from your sweet grandmothers, “You are what you eat!” But in today’s tech savvy world with access to social media outlets at our finger tips, we should rephrase the saying to “You are what you post!”

I know this isn’t new news, but I am constantly surprised by the amount of personal and unflattering information people blast on social media sites. When considering your image, especially your professional image, it is always great to remember: “You are what you post!” Every time you post something to a social media site, you are building a personal brand, whether or not that is your intent.

What do your social media sites say about you? Is everything you post about partying until 3 am? Are all your comments negative? Do you vent about your personal situations? We know that social media isn’t going anywhere, so why not use this avenue to your advantage?

In order to ensure you like what you’re posting, here are a few helpful tips:

1. Know your audience. Know who you’re “friends” with on Facebook or who is following you on Twitter. If you are friends with your boss or co-workers, it’s probably not the best idea to vent about how you hate your job.

2. Check out of “checking in.” Think twice before checking in on Facebook or allowing others to check you in. It could create an image of you that you don’t want or it could also leak secret information about a potential business deal. Not to mention, the world now knows when you are not at home, which opens up the risk for your home and valuables to be compromised.

3. Protect your passwords. To avoid being hacked, make sure you don’t leave your account open or have an obvious password.

4. Don’t use social media under the influence. You’re not supposed to drink and drive, and I am proposing that you shouldn’t party and post. When you are under the influence you lose your inhibition and could say something you may regret.

5. The Front Page Newspaper effect. If you wouldn’t want your post to be on the front of the Sunday newspaper, then don’t post it! Wait… social media is starting to become the newspaper after all!

So remember that old advice from your sweet grandmother (with a little twist), the next time you want to share something on social media. Will that post help or hurt your personal brand? Because after all…. “You are what you post!”

amanda.robbins@mattressfirm.com