Q: How do I tell a Facebook friend that I don't want to hear about every time her kid wets the bed or if she had a grilled cheese sandwich for lunch?
The driving force behind the success of Facebook is vanity. We all love to think that others are watching and interested in what we are doing. What you have mentioned is characteristic of the classic “oversharer.” It’s possible and probable that you have seen posts about her recent trip to the OBGYN, broken garbage disposal or the sale on Kleenex at the grocery store.
I don't know if it is your place to tell your friend how to post, however clever Facebook creators made it possible to hide stories from that friend and ease your frustration.
Other Facebook faux pas:
- Drunk Booking - I know we have all heard of drunk dialing, but the same applies to Facebook. Note to all Facebook users: Once a picture has been posted, there’s no turning back. Remember that the next time you think about posting those drunken pictures at 2 a.m.
- Language Violations - Lazy grammar or a spelling mistake is one thing, but incessant profanity is unacceptable. My great-aunt thanks you for refraining.
- Supposedly Sickos - Why would you update your profile status when you have called in sick to work? I am sure your boss wants to know how you can be having lunch on Joe T.’s patio if you have the flu.
- Inside Jokes - Nobody knows what you are talking about when you mention the kangaroo eating pizza. It’s not funny because we weren’t there. Communicate privately for private jokes.
- The Ode to Life and Other Inspirations - Everyone has one of these friends. They are always posting sunsets and kittens and hoping to bring a bit of light or personal growth to your morning.
