If you take a step back from the flurry of notifications, photo albums, and friend requests, Facebook teaches some valuable lessons about life and business.
1. that communication matters because it transforms the world we live in.
2. to be sensitive about how we represent ourselves and respond to others. Being positive and nice goes a long way.
3. that we all have a unique voice. Diversity is a reality and the world is globalized–so learn how to deal with it effectively.
4. it truly is a small world. Walt Disney was way ahead of the curve on this one!
5. that the personal, the professional, and the political are inseparable. As a leader you cannot expect people to not have human needs (e.g., for personal mastery, autonomy, and a sense of purpose).
6. to take a break every now and then-FarmVille anyone? While social media provides opportunities to connect, it can also be an unproductive distraction.
7. that no matter how obscure your interests, you are not alone. Leverage the power of the groups that you and your employees belong to to amplify your web presence.
8. to see ourselves as a part of a larger whole. Share the importance of your work and your social responsibility. Don’t just talk the talk; walk the walk.
9. to appreciate how our past has shaped our present. Knowing where we’ve been and where we are at are key to moving forward. Share the best parts of this history and collaborate to create a new reality.
And finally,
10. FB has taught us that one can never have too many friends.
Knowing what we know about FB, isn’t it time that you reflected on your social media strategy? For example, how well are you leveraging past successes? How genuine are the conversations that you are engaging customers, clients, or potential employees in? How useful is your social media strategy to others?
To learn more about how social media are changing workplace and employee communication processes, subscribe to the BNC Newsletter and/or connect with Dr. Chris on a social media platform.