"Shielded behind a computer screen, some people forget they are interacting with other human beings, saying things online that they would never say in person," observes Vandana Adhikari who works in the digital team of a leading firm in Guwahati. But the reality is, social media is social interaction. It's not just like real life; it is real life. Therefore it is wise and recommended to act accordingly by asking yourself before posting anything- Would I be comfortable saying this face to face? The bottom-line is that one should not say anything to anyone via social media that they are uncomfortable saying in person.
Adhikari also says that one should not behave differently online. "For instance in the 'real' world, would you randomly approach an acquaintance and ask them for a favor?" asks Subi Chaturvedi, a digital etiquette expert from Delhi. She continues, "Would you constantly talk about yourself without any regard for others around you? Would you jump into a conversation with strangers without introducing yourself? Would you accept a gift without saying thank you? In short these behaviors are just as rude online." One should also not tag indiscriminately as doing this is pretty offensive.
According to Subi it not advisable and out of etiquette to publicly engage with trolls. Some people state outrageous opinions or personally insult your pictures and profile. "When you feel you are being trolled on social media, don't get drawn into a public spat. There is a saying online: Don't feed the trolls. Ignoring the person is the easiest way to get them to stop; and if the harassment continues, contact the moderators of the platform you are using to intervene," she advises.
Don't try to "friend" people you don't know. In the early days of social media, people sent random friend requests to strangers all the time. "That's not cool anymore, especially with the heightened concerns of privacy and being hacked. Even if you don't mind friend requests from people you don't know, you can't assume others will feel the same way. When sending a friend request, include a personal message of introduction," advises Subi.
One should stay offline when you are angry. "Give yourself some time to cool off before going online. Reacting in anger is always a bad idea. This is true in any part of life, but especially on social media," says Adhikari.
Subi says that one should also take screenshots responsibly. "A screenshot is a snapshot of something on your device's screen—email, text messages, DMs. "When you are texting or emailing someone, the assumption is that it's between the two of you. Posting a [screenshot of a] conversation without the other person's consent is invasive and potentially detrimental to your relationship, whether personal or professional. So don't post unless the person has given you permission to—preferably in writing," she elaborates.
One should never post photos of someone without permission. "Just because someone allowed you to take their photo doesn't mean they're ready to have you post it. It's always a good idea to get a person's consent before you post a photo. If the setting is a public place—a bar or the beach—people don't always have the legal right to privacy, but it's always nicer to seek their permission before posting," says Adhikari. Subi also says that one should never post while drinking. In her words, "Alcohol can get into your head, and it might lead you to post some things you don't mean or things you don't want other people to see. If you're too drunk to drive, you're too tipsy to post on social media.
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