It’s a trend that has most certainly been escalating as the internet and virtual presence has become a stronghold in people’s lives. That trend is virtual “irresponsibility”. As social media, smart phones, and the business world have become more interconnected, the lines have been blurred. Some of the “confusions” that I’ve encountered involve the following (but are not limited to): format, grammar, appropriateness, and just plain old irrelevance.
As far as format goes, these are the things that I believe should be considered.
The most amusing and persuasive problem I encounter is grammar.
Appropriateness of writing is something that has become more neglected than others as the line has been blurred.
Last but not least, I have seen an overwhelming amount of irrelevance in virtual situations.
When it comes to all of the issues I previously stated, there are a few things that you can do to avoid them. It is important to understand the audience and purpose of what you are trying to convey. Before you send or post anything, put yourself in your audience’s shoes and consider what they can conclude from what you wrote. Don’t get me wrong, being involved in social media and the virtual world can be very good for you, but you must be able to influence what others conclude about you.
As far as format goes, these are the things that I believe should be considered.
- The whole purpose of a blog is for it to be read, so it would make sense to format it in a way that a reader can fully understand the point. Lead the reader through the “story”.
- Make things visible. They shouldn’t have to search for the main point.
The most amusing and persuasive problem I encounter is grammar.
- When a reader sees a misspelled word or incorrect punctuation it can lead to opinions of the writer that may or may not be true.
- Another facet of grammar is the type of grammar. When in a professional situation a writer should use words that convey professionalism. No shortened or abbreviated words like “OMG” or “that was crazayyy”.
Appropriateness of writing is something that has become more neglected than others as the line has been blurred.
- The most important thing to understand is the audience. Once you know your audience, you should know what is appropriate. ( This becomes difficult with social media)
- When writing to your boss, colleague, or other professional the personal tidbits should generally be avoided. There are times when it can be appropriate but it really depends on the relationship or the culture around the conversation.
- When it comes to social media sites such as facebook or linkedIn, you should know that anybody can see what you put up there (no matter your privacy settings). Be cautious and use common sense.
Last but not least, I have seen an overwhelming amount of irrelevance in virtual situations.
- It is important to know that when writing to somebody in the profession world, that it’s important to be clear, concise, and get to the point quickly. There’s no need for asking how their day is or discuss holiday vacations.
- Another thing that may not be so closely related to work, but is still important, is posting information on sites such as facebook or the equal. When somebody posts irrelevant things on facebook it may look to others like they spend all of their time on the site.
When it comes to all of the issues I previously stated, there are a few things that you can do to avoid them. It is important to understand the audience and purpose of what you are trying to convey. Before you send or post anything, put yourself in your audience’s shoes and consider what they can conclude from what you wrote. Don’t get me wrong, being involved in social media and the virtual world can be very good for you, but you must be able to influence what others conclude about you.