I just read an article in the July 20th issue Worcester Business Journal entitled “How To Keep Business Tweets Out Of Court.” The title grabbed my attention right away (after all, I seem to be particularly drawn to the latest musings in print on the social media spectrum). 

As I started to read through the piece, I was hoping to receive some sage words of advice or specific examples of what types of Twitter activity has gotten businesses into hot water. However, as I read through the article a few things became apparent.

First, there was not a single, actual example that the reporter sited to demonstrate the types of problems that can arise. Does this mean the problem doesn’t exist? Not necessarily, but the article didn’t live up to the hype in the headline.

The article alluded to the release of confidential information as the most plausible risk for business. But if that’s the case then this is certainly not a new phenomena. This issue has been around since Eve leaked the secret apple recipe to Adam. More specifically, we’ve already answered these questions with email, instant message, texting and blog trends.

It seems to me that the article, and the editors of WBJ, would have been better served to publish a story outlining the types of policies and education that business owners should be working on.

The world of social media can be a powerful tool for business. From customer service, to web search optimization, to community building there is a lot of potential gain. However like anything, proper education and preparation are key to success (or failure for that matter). If you are going to embrace the blogosphere, then write a Corporate Blogging Policy. If you are going to “experiment” with social media, develop a Social Media Marketing Manifesto like the one I posted here in the blog. Know why you are there, what you hope to benefit from, and create some simple guidelines for acceptable use and content.

True enough, Twitter may or may not be right for your business but either way, don’t let catchy headlines scare you from taking advantage of the power of communication.

-- Mike

follow me on Twitter @mikevilla