Last week, I posted a comment on my Facebook Fan Page asking if others were noticing  an increase in the number of insurance people and organizations becoming involved in social networking (setting up Facebook Pages, Tweeting and even using YouTube). It was agreed that while social networking activity had definitely increased over the past couple of months many of the newcomers were struggling to use the tools effectively. One comment observed that while “social presence was becoming main stream good social strategy was not”.  Another comment suggested that, “increased attention from traditional media is forcing people to take notice, but not dig deep enough to actually learn how social media can be an effective communications tool.” I couldn’t agree more.

So, here is the deal. I think that those of us who have been engaged in social networking for a year or more have an obligation to help and mentor those just getting started in this journey. “Liking”, being a “friend” or “following” someone comes with a certain responsibility. Good friends in the face-to-face world help each other and are honest with each other. They let friends know when they have a piece of spinach stuck in their teeth. They tell them when they have forgotten to zip their fly. The same honesty and willingness to help should exist in the on-line world. Give the gift of your knowledge and experience to your new friends. If they are shouting BUY ask them to tone it down, let them know that strategy is important, help them grow connections, and suggest tools and resources that will improve their social networking experience.

Are you with me on this?

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