The Facebook Playground: Tagging Etiquette

Has this happened to you?

You're running around the Facebook playground:

Catching up on news...

Chatting with friends...

Visiting your favorite pages...

You go to update your personal status, and...

TAG - You're it!

One of your Facebook friends has tagged you in a photo -- and you had no idea it was coming!!

Scrapes & Bruises

Ever since Facebook changed the layout of profiles and pages, I've been even more guarded about picture tags...

Every time someone tags you in a photo, the image arrangement in your 5-picture banner changes. I made a special banner, and I want to keep it visible to those that would visit my profile.

More of issue:

Often enough, I've been tagged on images that had nothing to do with me:

I was not in the photo.
I was not involved with the event in the picture.
I was not mentioned on the image.

My best analogy of that: Social media knock-knock split!

Wound Care

Here is a prescription of sorts for when tagging images is appropriate:

To recognize someone in the photo.
Acknowledging someone that took the photo - if they gave permission.
Paying tribute for being an important part of an event.
Giving credit for creating an image or graphic.

Posting an image on the Internet involves someone's personal space.

Tagged photos and images can be seen by those searching for someone -- That includes potential employers.Always ask yourself: How would I feel if I were tagged in this photo?

The Right Band-Aids

Mari Smith, author of "Facebook Marketing - An Hour A Day," offers a thorough look at Facebook Tagging Etiquette! Be sure to check out her post, Facebook @ Tagging Etiquette - A Guide For Personal And Business Use.

All Facebook's Ultimate Guide To Facebook Tagging Etiquette is a quick read and includes a short and cute video on the basics.

Getting Back on the Merry-Go-Round

In short - Don't be the bully. Refrain from playing knock-knock split, and you'll avoid the playground whistle ending the fun.

Remember: Social media is about them...not you. So as long as you're involving your friends and fans with tribute and respect, everyone logs off the playground with a smile. :)

Did I miss anything above?

Do you still have questions about tagging photos on Facebook?

Please leave a question or comment below!