Return of the Spammer

The reason I bring up the dreaded ‘S’ word again, is because it is a message that is worth repeating. Although not in a spammy way of course.
JPCT 150713 Alan Stainer. Photo by Derek MartinJPCT 150713 Alan Stainer. Photo by Derek Martin
JPCT 150713 Alan Stainer. Photo by Derek Martin

As well as following lots of people and businesses on social media, I am also a member of lots of online communities and moderate a few too. So believe me when I say I have seen my fair share of spammy behaviour.

The shocking truth of the matter is this, it isn’t just spam bots and scammers from far flung places that are at fault. I frequently see local businesses displaying the same sorts of behaviour as genuine spammers. This to me is a shame, because most of the time I don’t believe the perpetrators are even aware of what they are doing.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

There seems to be a marketing mentality that says, “Use social media to advertise. It is free.” This misses the point of social media, but more importantly it can seriously damage your public image.

To give you an example, people create and join online communities for many reasons. The majority of people do so because they want to engage with like minded people. Imagine how you would feel if a business started posting the same photo and the same list of services daily to a group you had joined, without any form of interaction from them at all.

Would you buy from that business? I know I wouldn’t, because their behaviour demonstrates a lack of care and attention.

Yet that is exactly the sort of behaviour is see all too often.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

To avoid being labelled a spammer is so simple. All it takes is a little time and effort. Try to engage and be engaging and you will build lasting relationships with people. Treat people online the same way you would treat them in real life. Above all, add value.

Lastly, think carefully about employing a third party to post for you and make sure they don’t spam!