Last weekend I made the unfortunate decision to purchase a turkey sandwich from a well-known sandwich shop. Five hours later I wasn’t feeling so well. In fact, I was violently ill for the entire weekend.
I missed one of my son’s football games, a family gathering and the house went to absolute rack and ruin!
As the dust settled and I was able to leave my sick bed, I became really angry. Not only had I felt horrendously sick and thought about dying, I had wasted so much time.
So, what could I do to put it right? To make sure that no-one else would suffer my fate.
As an avid social media user, there was a very big part of me that wanted to share. I wanted to tell the world about my woes and encourage others to stay away from this particular establishment. A few sharp tweets, a witty Facebook status update and possibly even an Instagrammed pic of my electrolyte-laden rehydration drink. I had it all worked out.
I was so tempted…….
But instead I chose not to. And here is why:
- I had eaten at this establishment before without any issue
- I didn’t want to be responsible for damaging their business
- I think it is courtesy to contact an establishment to address your concerns BEFORE using social media to do so
I have to be honest and say it wasn’t easy restraining myself but I did know it was the right call. So instead I contacted the relevant health authorities and made a complaint. They have assured me that they will conduct an investigation.
Now, a social media campaign about my food poisoning episode may have provided me with short term satisfaction but in reality a direct complaint to the relevant authorities will ensure a better outcome for others.
I believe social media use comes with great responsibility. Irresponsible use could potentially ruin your career, friendships and, most importantly, your digital reputation. And let me assure you – had I tweeted midst illness – I may not be telling this story today!!
So, next time you are thinking about using social media to defame or even just rant, please do the following:
- Take a deep breath
- Ask yourself whether social media is really the best channel to get an outcome
- Consider whether you are going to harm anyone in the process
- Ask yourself whether your outburst will affect your digital reputation
And then make yourself a nice snack before you do anything further. Just make sure it isn’t a turkey sandwich!
Take care,
Alex x