No one wants that attitude. Take it somewhere else.

What is antisocial networking?  Well, first we have to figure out what social networking really means.  I mean, “social networking”.  Isn’t that redundant?  It sounds like a big party.  Not really.

My son’s American Heritage Student Dictionary says:

social: adj. 1a. Living together in communities or similar organized groups

network: n.1. An open fabric or structure in which cords, threads, or wires cross at regular intervals.

So the “social” part is about living together, community and organization.  “Networking refers to open communication and interaction with others.  These interactions form the structure of the network, and without them it would collapse.  In fact, there wouldn’t even be a network.  The word is defined by meeting, connecting, and interacting.

antisocial: adj. 1. Avoiding the society or company or others; Not sociable.  2.  Hostile to, or violating accepted rules of behavior.

Pay close attention to these words.  “Avoiding” others, being “hostile“, “violating” the rules.  “Violating” is a strong word.  We use it when we talk about sealed packages ripped open, women raped, and sacred places defiled by filth and debauchery.  This is not merely bending or even breaking the rules of interaction.  It is smashing them to a bloody pulp, and urinating on the remains!

So who am I talking about, exactly?  Who is this vile blasphemer? The “Britney Bots” on Twitter?  Without question.  The spammers and schemers who send viruses and unending ads for Acai berry colon cleansers and teeth whiter than Santa Claus’ beard?  Absolutely.  But what about you?  Are you an antisocial networker? Perhaps.  Do any of these describe you?

-Using automated software to send all your tweets or updates, and never reading what anyone else says, even the comments and direct messages you get.  You’ve really missed the boat.  The whole point of this thing is two-sided interaction.  If you’re just going to broadcast, go for radio or TV.

-Sending nothing but plugs for your own stuff, even if you do it manually.  This is a community.  In “real life” is every word out of your mouth about your business?  I hope not! What else do you have to say?  People do want to know.

-Hiding behind fake pictures and a generic username, with no details.  You don’t have to tell the world your GPS location and your mother’s maiden name, but please tell us something about you!  And “FastMoneySecrets” is blah.  You sound like a corporate drone in a grey suit.  Blah, blah, blah.  Hey, that’s even what your fake picture is!

-Being irregular.  You don’t have to be on Twitter or Myspace 24-7, but make an effort to make updates and connect at least once a week.  If you never interact, you’re boring and people forget about you.

-Negativity My momma told me if you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all.  If you’re upset, a little ranting is OK.  But don’t make it your main message.  No one likes a sourpuss.  There are so many positive, good things in life, if you just look for them.

I’m working on pulling all the “noxious weeds” I’ve found have sprung up in my Twitter account.  Being antisocial is just not acceptable, and I won’t tolerate it any longer.  This is an amazing tool and phenomenon that we are lucky to be blessed with in our time. Don’t take it for granted.  Be social and get networking!

What is your pet peeve about antisocial networking?  Who do you wish would get the point and get a life?  Please leave comments and let me know!

photo credit: darrenhester