Yes, New Year resolutions are lame. But the fact is, this time of year it’s just natural we reflect on changes we want to make and where we want to be in the coming year. So for all of us who do the whole social networking thing, I thought I would throw out some important social networking resolutions for 2009. These really are here as suggestions, in particular for those of you who are new to social networking and may not understand the etiquette of a web community.

1. I will not automate my social networking. This is not social networking, everyone. The worst of this, in my opinion, is the auto-direct message on Twitter when I follow someone. Worse yet is when that automatic message suggests I “feel free” to visit their blog or buy their crap.
2. I will give, not take. If you want to be part of a community, you need to contribute to it first. Then you will be welcomed. As you social network, always ask yourself, “What can I do to help my followers/friends/subscribers?” Just like blog kharma, social networking kharma goes a long way. Here’s the cool part. You can give for completely selfish reasons, if that helps you get through it. That’s because I have found every time I give, the social network gives back tenfold. It’s truly a beautiful and amazing thing.
3. I will be a person first. No one wants to talk to a logo or an entity. Even online. It’s OK to be representing your work or your company or a brand. But you should enter the communities of the web as a person first and foremost. Use your face (hey, a real one, not some weird created cartoon avatar). You can obscure your identity with a headshot from an unusual angle or a partial face. Use your name (or at least a pseudonym if you need privacy). Be a person who is promoting something, don’t BE the thing.

What else would you suggest to those who are looking to get a fresh start (or a fresh attitude) for their social networking? And, of course, Happy New Year.

_{Illustration © ilco on sxc.hu}