Many people upload photos to the Internet through different internet photo sharing methods, including social networking sites, online photo albums, emails, and newsletters. Anyone who publishes photos online or who has photos of themselves published online needs to be careful about which photos are uploaded.
Sharing inappropriate photos may not only harm your professional reputation, but it could also harm your personal relationships. The trouble is, it can sometimes be tough to understand what photos are appropriate for sharing and what photos are best left unshared.
Here are some tips to help you stay smart with your online photo sharing-and to keep inappropriate photos of yourself offline.
Online Photo Sharing Rule 1: Use Discretion
Use discretion-and ask your friends to use discretion-when publishing photos of you on their social network sites. Remember: using discretion when developing your online reputation is one of the best ways to ensure your privacy and appeal to a larger market.
Check Privacy Settings for Personal Social Media Accounts
If using Facebook (many people are – including your clients, colleagues, and work superiors), be sure to check your Facebook sharing privacy settings for photos, wall posts, updates, and more.
Email Carefully-and Always Double Check Before Sending
Email with care-and always double check your “send to” addresses. Only send photos via email that you would feel comfortable sharing with everyone you know. There are a few things to keep in mind when sending photos via email specifically at work or to work-related associates, such as clients.
Research Photo Sharing Websites Before Uploading
Choose the right photo sharing website to which you plan to upload your photos. Look for sites that have privacy settings or that only allow you to share your online photo albums with people you approve. It may be okay for some of your clients to see your personal photo albums, but make sure you’re comfortable with the privacy settings so that you have control over who sees your snapshots.
Consider Your Professional Image on Professional Networking Sites
When networking on a professional networking website, keep in mind that the photos you share represent your personal image. There are 3 types of photos you should never add to a professional networking site-and there are some photos that you should feel completely comfortable sharing on professional networking sites, as they could enhance your professional image. Take time to consider what you want your professional image to be before uploading your photos.
A Few Reasons Not to Share Photos Online
Everyone has different reasons for sharing-or not sharing-photos online. Here are a few reasons you might not want to post a photo of yourself online, but be sure to make a list for your own reasons before uploading your photos.
Remember: as a small business owner and professional, your personal reputation is often directly tied to your professional success. Upload and share with caution and ask your friends to do the same!
