It seems like I'm doing a perpetual face-palm every time I log on to the Internet.
Typos, grammatical errors, using numbers for letters, speaking in 'text' and the raping of the English language in general is really starting to wear on me.
I'm not sure if people are just too lazy to check their work, if they truly are illiterate or if this whole “Internet/Text speak” business is becoming the norm, but I can tell you one thing. Well, two things, actually.
- I do not like it.
- I shall not partake.
It's fun (and imperative) to engage your online audience via social media platforms, blogs and other Internet communities, but you should do so in a manner that leaves the integrity of your business and your brand intact.
The thing about the Internet is that someone is always watching you.
(Cue The Police song here, for ambiance)
Every tweet you send.
Every blog you write.
Every comment you make.
They are watching you.
And while they are watching you, your potential clients will take note of three things:
- Whether your business can provide the product, service or solution they need
- What qualifies you to provide that product, service or solution
- The overall impression given by your online presence
Here's an example.
You've been looking for someone to provide you with ____________ service. You have the names of a couple of businesses in the area so you decide to check them out online. Both are highly, yet equally qualified to do the job and both are certified in many specialty areas in their industry. You find both of their Facebook pages and decide to read up on each company.
Company A's last Facebook entry said:
Company A is a leading provider of ________ services in your area. Your success is our business and we are dedicated to helping you achieve it. Contact our knowledgeable staff today to schedule an appointment and receive a free quote!
Company B's last Facebook entry said:
If u need it, we can do it for u. Let us save you $$$$$! Call 2day 2 c what we have to offer. All r products are priced to sale!
(Just know I cringed when I wrote that.)
So – which one would you pick?
My point exactly.
The moral of this story is:
Don't 'b' Company B.
Show a little bit of pride (and literacy) in your online presence.
Potential clients (and my sanity) will thank you for it.