I'd add that where there is a community on a social network such as a Ning or LinkedIn Group of Facebook page, it's important to have a set of 'rules of engagement' and also have the host of the group or the community manager be vigilant and step in where appropriate.

Many people don't realise but their response and engagement impacts their reputation, personal brand and even influence whether to recommend them or do business with them in the future.

I'm glad you posted this. This is a really important topic to have out there. The reality is (at least what I see) is the whole Internet is moving to a "social networking" format — which means people want more interaction and to have a voice. This idea of top down selling or communicating is disappearing, instead people will be choosing to do business with people who they can interact with. While on many levels this is great because it's allowing us to bring our humanity to the Internet and business, there's a dark side as you so adeptly pointed out. Great job Nance!

<abbr>Michele PWs last blog post..What’s YOUR favorite low-cost marketing technique?</abbr>

While I haven't personally run into this online, I have in person while president of the local Lions Club and my advice if it ever happens to you is to stay in your power, be present, be gracious and "do what you do".

If you made a mistake and that's the reason for the attacks, acknowledge it, make it right if you can and move on.

If it's just plain meanness, be yourself and let karma do its job.

With love and abundance,

Sandy

Like I've said since the get-go: if you wouldn't do, say, or wear it to an in-person networking event, don't do, say, or wear it on your social networking sites!
Nancy

I really see all the huge social networks as a micro of the macro – there's oddballs, opportunists and plain inappropriate peeps all over the planet. Social sites give people a voice, but some don't know where to draw the line.

The good thing is we are moving into a totally transparent world; there's nowhere to hide. Those who choose to air their grievances publicly online never know who's watching them and choosing not to do business with them because of certain behaviors. Shame.

Btw, see also this recent article on Marketing Profs about the "Darkside of Twitter" oooooh!!
http://www.marketingprofs.com/9/dark-side-of-twit…

Cheers,

@marismith