Social media allows you to get in touch with people from all over the country without even having to leave your couch. While this provides for some terrific networking opportunities, it also enables you to see just how many…interesting personality types there are out there. As you’re browsing Twitter and Facebook, remain aware of the following types of social media users:
The constant ranter
From the time they wake up to the time they sign off, they find something to complain about. The traffic was outrageous on the way in. Their lunch was cold. Their boss is in a mood again. Their husband/wife/mother/unruly dog makes their living situation stressful. They need more hours in a day. You get the point. Don’t let this person’s negativity get to you. It’s not you, it’s them.
The overenthusiastic networker
This person LOVES to connect with people on social media, but sometimes it goes a little too far. What starts off as a casual interaction about the latest episode of Mad Men turns into a discussion about your past employment, your pets, your next vacation, your political beliefs, and so on. When they start asking for your social security number, it’s time to cut them loose. But really, even if they seem harmless, it’s best to keep the conversation casual and not give out personal details.
The secret spy
You always thought you had a little rivalry going between you and that other guy in your department, but who knew that this person was secretly collecting a secret file of all of your tweets and statuses. While you were innocently mentioning that you’re excited for the weekend, the spy was taking a screen shot of this and talking to your boss about how this means you hate your job. They use your posts to illustrate the fact that you took an unusually long lunch today. When dealing with this shady character, remember that anything you tweet can and will be used against you.
The play-by-play user
While Twitter is great for short updates and Facebook allows you to share your thoughts with the world, some people get carried away when they use these sites. Talking about how you adopted a new pet or won an award is fine. Sharing that you’re craving a cheeseburger, have to go to the airport soon, need a new pair of shoes, would love to be able to go visit your best friend, can’t wait to go camping this weekend, and need a nap is a bit much. If you’re getting tired of feeling like you’re actually living this person’s life, you can hide their posts. You’re probably not the first to do so.
The constant critic
Regardless of how great that movie was or how delicious the new restaurant in town is, this guy has something negative to say. He’s as cynical as they come and seems to specialize in squashing dreams and ruining moods. Constructive criticism is great, but this guy takes it to a new level. When dealing with this person, take their critiques with a grain of salt. Chances are that the movie/restaurant/anything is better than they make it out to be. If the ever-present skepticism is bothering you, cut ties.
And lastly, we certainly can’t forget to name “the show off” among one of the worst social media users. She’s so proud of herself for losing 40 pounds. He’s so in love. She’s thrilled to announce that she’s received a promotion. He’s blessed with a beautiful family. We get it. Enough already. If you find yourself dealing with one of these teeth grinding-worthy personality types, don’t feel bad about clicking the “unfollow” button. That’s what it’s there for, right?
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