Laurie Manny said something that was completely reasonable within the context of AR and highlights the fact that it is so easy to use social networking tools (like AR) irresponsibly...
Laurie: "I have no objection to taking this post public, but I cannot speak for anybody else."
I know I must sound like a broken record to my high-school age sisters, but I'd be happy to repeat time and time again to them that they should NEVER say anything or upload any photos on MySpace that they would not want included in their college application (or shown on their first job interview!). The typical reaction is one of indifference, but that doesn't make the lesson any less important.
My advice to AR participants who use the "member's only" functionality: Use this feature because it makes you feel closer to a group of people or you think it will attract additional attention to your posts, but do not use it to say things you wouldn't feel comfortable saying in a public place. It would be quite easy for me (or any other AR blogger) to take a snippet of your text and quote it on another blog (like RCG) not behind AR firewall...
In reality, we're the "adults" and if we can't use social networks responsibly, then how can we expect our kids?
Before you hit "post" or "submit", ask yourself: would I want this published in the real estate section of my local newspaper?
(Also note that I have nothing against Laurie in this context and would advocate she did the "right" thing and didn't say anything on this post she would be ashamed of making public!)
Good information. We should always think about what we are doing before we post. Thanks
Lance & Elaine
the Wells Team