In a recent class discussion I pointed out that Facebook profiles are an excellent way for individuals to manage their brand. Whether a person is posting a video or updating a status, their activity on Facebook is a reflection of their thoughts. Additionally, it sends a message to the receivers or viewers that this is the perception that a person wants to give to the public.
As time progresses, communication is becoming less personal. Employers are choosing their employees based on social media profiles, students are earning degrees online and e-commerce makes it easier for people to purchase goods. Individuals are constantly striving to manage and maintain their credibility over the web.Facebook profiles give others the opportunities to learn about your interests, educational background and even career aspirations.Viewers can see your professional networks, personal friends and civic participation.
Managing your brand is critical. Some people view your profile way before they meet you. It is increasingly important to be conscious about the image you represent as well as the message you send.
Business and corporations have the responsibility of managing their brand as well. It is important for these entities to manage their brand by maintaining a presence. They can maintain a presence by disseminating news and information or providing deals on certain merchandise. Businesses and individuals are greatly impacted by their Facebook brand and must work constantly to maintain it's credibility.
This post reminds me a lot of two recent events- one is an episode of How I Met Your Mother, the other is a discussion from a gentleman who worked for DARPA. In a recent HIMYM episode, Ted meets a girl at a bar and asks her out to dinner. They promise each other to not do "background searches" on each other beforehand because then you are left with preconceived notions and don't really listen to as much of what they have to say or get to know their personality outside of their online "brand." (Of course his friends looked and told him and it ruined their date because all he could see floating around her head was the "brand" version of her his friends found on the web). Similarly, the DARPA employee told us that he is relatively certain that one day soon we will be looking through glasses or lenses of some type and literally see the different profiles of people around their physical being. If this ever becomes the case, proper "branding" of yourself may become even more important than what you have to say out loud.
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