10 things you should never say to a social media manager

It’s inevitable: Someone at a holiday party this year isn’t going to understand your job. Head off irritating questions by referring him to this list.

Reconnecting with them can occasionally end up in some awkward moments. One of those moments comes when you try to explain your job as a social media or community manager.

Here is a list, compiled from the real-life experiences of me and some of my friends, of what we hear most. Print it out and post it on the fridge at your next holiday party.

Do you have a social media or community manager in the family? Pour yourself another eggnog and read this list before you start to talk about what exactly that means.

1. “Hey, I use Facebook. I would be so good at your job!”

While it is true that using Facebook is part of the job, that’s only one part of the job. You need to know how to use all social media sites (and blogs), and how best to use them for your community.

2. “I just don’t get the point of ‘The Tweeter.'”

First of all, don’t call it “The Tweeter.” Calling it that is either ignorant or obnoxious, and sometimes both. Twitter is an important part of the social media tool kit. It is a great way to get involved with your community members, both by talking with and listening to them.

3. “What do you do all day?”

Short answer: a lot.

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