Social Networking: Rules of Engagement

It is important when entering into a social network space that rules and guidelines are in place.

This was adapted from the Channel 9 (MSNBC) doctrine incorporating user comments. It provides a template to where rules can be made to make the most out of brands social network presence.

1. Social networks are all about the conversation. It should inspire the brand and it's customers to talk in an honest and human voice.
   
2. Be a human being. Social networks is a place for us to be ourselves, to share who we are, and for us to learn who our customers are.
3. Learn by listening. When our customers speak, learn from them. Don't get defensive, don't argue for the sake of argument. Listen and take what benefits you to heart.
4. Be smart. Think before you speak, there are some conversations which have no benefit other than to reinforce stereotypes or create negative situations.
5. Don't shock the system. Lasting change only happens in baby steps.
6. Know when to turn the mic off. There are some topics which will only result in problems when you discuss them. This has nothing to do with censorship, but with working within the reality of the system that exists in our world today. You will not change anything by taking on legal or financial issues, you will only shock the system, spook the passengers, and create a negative situation.
7. Don't be a jerk. Nobody likes mean people.
8. Commit to the conversation. Don't stop listening just because you are busy. Don't stop participating because you don't agree with someone. Relationships are not built in a day, be in it for the long haul and we will all reap the benefits as an industry.
9. You should set goals before you can determine your strategy. Increase awareness, raise positive sentiment with your brand?
10. Define who you want to target. Also find out where they hang out and what tools they use to communicate.
11. Don't just use tools that everyone else is using, choose tools that best align with your goals and technologies that your target audience use.

For more information visit http://channel9.msdn.com/About/ to see the original.

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