Protect the interns
As more and more small businesses are tuning to social media (Facebook, Twitter, Foursquare, Gowalla, Google Lattitude, LinkedIn, etc.) to promote their products and services, I offer some cautionary advice here.
After delivering a speech recently a small business owner sought me out for some advice. She mentioned her new and heavy use of social media and how her firm was conducting random street events where they gave away sample products and discounts. On the surface this sounds like a great plan, of course as my readers know, I always dig well below the surface.
I learned that “Emma” (not her real name) was relying heavily on summer interns for these casual events and that they were mostly using their personal social media accounts and contacts to garner an audience. I was still okay with this until I learned that many times these interns were alone at these random meet-ups.
Unfortunately we live in a dangerous world and predators are well tuned into social media, including location-based services. Businesses need to take appropriate precautions and have firm policies on these types of business activities. Employees/interns (male or female) should never be put in the position where they question their personal security.
As most businesses put up firewalls to protect their network, the same attitude ought be taken to protect staff. Its not only business smart, its also the right thing to do.
If you have questions or comments about this or any other business question, email me
