Remember in grade school when it was said that a boy who picked on the girl did it because he really liked her?
The same might be true in the social media world… maybe the best form of flattery.
Do you know a social media heckler?
Heckler Profile Type 1: You know ‘that person’ who lurks, but rarely responds unless it’s an opportunity to say something argumentative. Hecklers don’t offer value or insight - they are more of a sore on your lip - especially when commenting on your social media.
Heckler Profile Type 2: The one that calls you out via a Twitter mention or a Facebook tag, but is doing it so they can either draw attention to themselves or so they can try to make you look bad. You are often speechless, but feel compelled to respond to either set the record straight or to tell them (politely) to buzz off.
Heckler Profile Type 3: Even better than type 2 are those people that mention you and you don’t know who they are. And worse, when they mention you, they don’t follow you (so you can’t DM them), and they’re still an ‘egg’ on Twitter so you truly have no idea who they are. Should I thank them for the RT?
I tell my clients how important it is to maintain a positive online reputation for their business. At the end of the day, a heckler is still a heckler and really only makes themselves look bad.
My message to all the hecklers of the world: get a life!
Run your own race. Worry about yourself.
And, like grade school, keep your hands (and tags) to yourself!
I had #2 happen to me a few weeks ago. I had to shut down my computer and not open it again until Monday because my feelings were so badly hurt. Sometimes the best thing to do is just walk away for a while.
You are so sweet, Gini. I say that because I tend to get angry first (then my feelins are hurt). You're right, though - it's best to remove yourself from the situation. Great advice.