Digital Citizenship #Self-Image #Digital Citizenship #Toddlers #Digital Reputation #College #Teens #Kids #Tweens
Let's face it, kids can be more tech savvy than their parents and it is time we switch that around.
Facebook was originally created for college students. It sat quietly in cyberspace, neatly and comfortably informing students of campus activities, homework, parties, as well as other personal insights to their lives.
Fast-forward today when not only parents and grandparents are on Facebook, potential employers as well as college recruiters are scanning social networking sites including Twitter, LinkedIn and others.
Students may have been pioneers of Facebook, but parents need to be their digital role models today. Never has it been so important to lead by example. What goes online --- stays online, no matter what age you are.
I sat at a professional luncheon recently and was intrigued by a conversation. A business owner who actually hired employees through Facebook said that he meet an employment recruiter who actually suggests that recent college grads deactivate their Facebook and Twitter accounts when they are looking for employment.
This business owner felt this is poor advice, and I agree with him. As he said, in today's digital world, if you aren't online and don't have a digital footprint -- what exactly are you trying to hide? Again, I agree.
With this example, parents need to put on their leadership caps and think about how they can encourage their kids, and especially their teens, to create a positive digital footprint that will build their bright and prosperous future.
These are only a few ideas. I encourage parents and everyone to share more in the comment section below.
Remember parents, you are their role model. Your kids are watching you - one keystroke at a time.
Bonus thought for day:
If you are texting and driving, don't expect your teen not to text and drive. You may say you are more experienced, however your teenager believes they are invincible. Be the role model - put your cell phone away. Lead by example, it speaks volumes.
Cover image courtesy of Flickr