How much is too much to share online? This can be a tricky decision when you have any sort of online presence. Bellow I share my tips, by Rosa Fairfield.
Photographs by Linda Smith
Here are some tips for finding a balance in what you share online:
1) The choice is yours
I think this is a decision you have to make if you are a blogger, YouTuber or influencer. What feels most comfortable to you? Do you want to share every detail of your personal life, just speak about a general topic like fashion or something in-between. There is no right or wrong answer, it's up to you as a person.
2) Go through deleting anything you don't want to be seen
Think about your online trail. Do you have an old Facebook account with drunk pictures on that you don't want potential employers to see? People can search for and find these accounts even if you don't use them anymore so make sure you delete or at least make private anything you don't want to be out there.
3) You can change your mind
I've done this before. I've put stuff online that I have later realised I'm not comfortable sharing and have taken it down. Now, you have to be aware, that of course some people have already seen it... which is why it's a good idea to think through everything before you post it.
4) Think before you type
I've seen a lot of people with very strong views type things in the heat of the moment, which others have taken offence to, which has given them a nasty backlash. So think before you type, and think about how what you are saying will effect other people. Then, if you do get into one of these situations, the best thing to do is release an apology.
5) Think about people in your offline life
You have to be aware that people that you care about in your everyday life can also see what you share online so don't share anything that could possibly be hurtful to them... or the other way around, things you don't want them to know about...
6) Defamation
Kind of a legal issue... but don't say anything that could possibly be damaging to another person's reputation, unless it is clearly stated as your own opinion or if you have hard proof to back it up. Otherwise you are in a tricky legal situation. Also, be aware of copyright law, when thinking about using other people's images without their permission.
7) Your location
I personally tend not to tag the location of my Instagram and Twitter pictures when they are taken somewhere close to my home. I think that helps you stay safe. There are some unsavoury characters out there, that may take advantage of it. I also think it's wise, if filming near your house don't show any distinguishing feature that would make it easy to find, like a house number or a car reg.
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