ME 2.0

My mind is preoccupied by the abuse, misuse and seemingly ignorance of people on the gross effect of new media in a person’s brand. Strike while the iron is hot! As the sayings goes, so please allow me to share 3 illustrations of  how web 2.0 has hurt  people for their careless actions, and  how we can further erode somebody else’s brand because of new media.

1st Illustration: How to lose a job in one tweet

This story has been discussed and joked about worldwide. Looks like we came to a point where we are so comfortable with the different social networking sites and unmindful of the possible consequences. At least, not until it will hit us, and hit us hard. I liked what  Cyma Saeed said

I think this is an experimental phase…take Facebook for example; they just adjusted their privacy options. We will all make mistakes and social media communication will evolve. Many of us will be left with tattoos that will have to be removed (surgically), spawning the “online reputation management industry”. The next generations will have better self regulation and will also be more accepting! Just imagine what he vetting process for future presidential candidates will be like!

2nd Illustration: Facebook Surfing Cost A Woman’s Job After Calling In Sick

While facebooking is not the issue here per se, (at least, according to the employer) but the lost of trust that develops overtime because of productivity issues (wasting company time over and over again)

3rd Illustration: Abuse of the freedom of expression

In our part of the world, there was an uproar because of the sex scandal videos of well known personalities (doctors, models and actresses) being uploaded to some  SNSes and published on blogs by “anonymous” users who advance their personal interests at the expense of the already exploited victims.  While I appreciate the kind of freedom we have here, some people who hide under anonymity tend to abuse this freedom, and the use of Social Media. Freedom is not absolute and exercise of this  should not hurt the brand of another person.

Going back to the scandal videos, if my understanding is correct, the ladies in those sex vids are not aware that they are being video taped (by their own lover). Much more will they give consent to publish and distribute these. Thanks to the bloggers who eagerly spread the news, published snap shots of the vids and passed these in different SNS, these girls brand or reputation may have been damaged beyond repair.  Yes, they may be stupid but that does not give anyone the right to bury them alive.

With these examples, let us be mindful and protect our brand, and respect other people’s brand as well.

Sonnie Brand Management, Social Media, Social Responsibility Blogging