Blog Etiquette: When Blogs Attack
Q: I'm on a few different social networks (MySpace and Friendster primarily), and a friend (who's also on the network) and I recently had a falling out. Now she's posted a rather nasty (and one-sided) blog entry about me. What should I do?
A: Social networking sites are great, but this is one of the unfortunate side effects. Well, there are a few approaches to your dilemma, so we'll start with the classiest. Ignore the unflattering blog post. It's probably what your grandma would tell you and it's not very satisfying, but it will allow you weather the storm with dignity, which is more than we can say for your "friend." After all, you guys may make up, and in that case, it's best not to to have a written record of your grievances.
But let's face it, you're probably pretty angry, and the high road is not for everyone. While it's not acceptable to respond with an equally mean blog (seriously, it's not okay and will only make you look petty--don't do it), you can post an entry in defense of yourself. Don't name names or cite particulars, though. If you must respond, keep it simple.
For example, you could write, "Many of you know that I'm going through a frustrating experience right now. While it's never fun when people air out dirty laundry and say things that simply aren't true, I wanted to send out my appreciation to all my friends for your support. Cheers to the good times ahead!" With this approach, you're not attacking anyone and you're not coming off like a victim either. You keep your class and you let others know that there's another side to the story.
Why Friends Grow Apart
The Ultimate Cinco de Mayo Margaritas
How to Host Your First Book Club Party
Six Ways to Get over a Breakup
The Look of Love: What Your Pupils Are Saying
Lifestyle Fashion and Beauty Relationships Fitness and Health Money and Finance
Travel Food and Entertaining Site Map
İUtterly Fabulous Network 2006-2007. All Rights Reserved. Email webmaster@utterlyfabulousnetwork.com.