Ethics in communications

It is generally excepted that you always disclose who you are affliated with when posting online (when your post relates to your affliation.) This is important if you are a member of a professional organization that has these guidelines. But, it is also important to maintain the integrity of the online communities. Social media users, as we all are, tend to be very protective of their communities and the values they bring. We are often very weary of marketers attempting to infiltrate our ranks.

However, I think there is a real place for corporation dialogue within online communities. Corporations have valueable information to bring to conversations, but they should do it AS the corporation. This presents a real opportunity for companies to share their positions, issues and information with others and really add to the conversation. This will build their network and enhance their brand reputation if they are willing to truly be ethical.

Corporations are often behind the curve when it comes to online interaction, and participating in online communities offers them a way to give and recieve feedback in a way that was never possible before.