Privacy Settings Tutorial Makes Facebook Friendly Again

Sitting in on the Missouri Corn Growers Association’s Social Media Training Session, held in conjunction with the National Corn Growers Association as part of an overall campaign to improve farmer image, it became apparent rather quickly why so many people resist the growing trend of “Facebooking.”  Simply put, many people fear Facebook will destroy their personal privacy.

While media horror stories perpetuate this myth, with a little forethought anyone can use this amazing communications tool.  First, set strict privacy controls.  Second, think before you post.

Adjusting the Facebook privacy settings can be a bit daunting to new social media users, but great online resources offer tutorials that guide users through the process while suggesting how to make their account as secure as they choose.  Guides like this one (click here) explain all of the terminology, show how each decision affects personal privacy and teach how to adjust the settings to meet each users unique needs and preferences.

Then, think before you post.  Even with strict privacy settings, the people that you allow to view your page will be able to see, and remember, what you write.  In the heat of the moment, people often say things that they regret later.  On Facebook, written words are actually published. By looking at each post a second time prior to hitting publish, users can make sure they put out the right message.

Facebook let’s a single person reach across the world and interacts with hundreds of thousands of other people looking to be informed, persuaded and entertained.  By following these two easy privacy tips, anyone can take advantage of this unprecedented opportunity and get out their story.