What does “Social Media Etiquette” mean in the context of social media?

Social Media Etiquette is the informal code of conduct that guides how individuals and brands should behave on social platforms. It includes best practices such as giving proper credit, avoiding spammy content, responding politely, respecting privacy, and being mindful of tone and timing.

Practicing good etiquette helps maintain a positive online presence, builds trust with your audience, and reduces the likelihood of misunderstandings or backlash.

Example

Before reposting someone’s content, ask for permission or give clear credit—basic social media etiquette goes a long way.

What are ways to use “Social Media Etiquette” on social media?

Practice social media etiquette by being respectful in your comments, avoiding all caps (which can seem aggressive), not overusing hashtags, and always fact-checking before sharing information. For businesses, it means responding to feedback—positive or negative—in a courteous and professional manner.

Respect others’ intellectual property, avoid offensive or overly personal content, and engage with your community in a thoughtful and authentic way.

Pro Tip

A good rule of thumb: if you wouldn’t say it in person, don’t post it online. Kindness and clarity go a long way in digital communication.