What Constitutes Fair Play in The Social Media Playground?

I recently came across a web article exposing a social media certification program as “nonsense.” I won't get into whether I agree or disagree. Anyone who knows me can probably guess my opinion but that is not the point of this post. The article in question absolutely skewered the partners and company offering the program. It makes me uneasy when people do that. I've ranted about a few very large companies I've had customer service issues with but as a paying customer, I have some right to do that. I try not to attack individuals but will instead comment on the behavior that disturbs me. I have many reasons for this but the main one is, I don't put myself above other people. I will satire a group but what if I am wrong about the individual? I've only walked in MY moccasins.

I find this trend of trying to make money teaching others social media disturbing. There is a purpose and place for this but not nearly to the degree it is being exploited. I agree with the author's point that anyone teaching social media should have some accreditation in the field but no formal accreditation exists (at least that I am aware of). I believe anyone with any common sense would not spend three thousand dollars for the particular program being offered. Those without common sense would be unlikely to read the article attacking the program. People seeking a magic bullet don't want to be confused by research and logic. I do not condone people taking advantage of other people. I also get angry with people who will cheapen an industry with their incompetence but it happens in every industry. Like the Lernaean Hydra, chop off one head and another will replace it. What these companies do may be at best, unprofessional and at worst, immoral but if they aren't breaking any laws, they are just capitalizing on a need. None of us has to like it but they have a right to do it.

As I researched and read off-shoots of this article and articles about the article I came back to another question I keep asking anyone who might answer: What is a social media expert? I've been asking this question for a long time. Many people I know who are knowledgeable about social media ask the same question. Most of the people I respect agree there is no definition. Social networking has been around for well over a decade but it didn't have a name at first. When it finally got a name, the average person couldn't have told you what it was. Today millions of unique visitors use social media and social networking. Most people have no idea how to use this tool to their best advantage. I know several people I would consider social media experts but not being an expert myself, my opinion hardly matters. What I do know is, there is a lot of infighting. When articles are posted such as the ones I read before writing this, many of the same people clamor to comment and show their authority. There is judgment, one-upmanship and ass kissing. I am not saying that is all I see. I also see a free exchange of ideas and knowledge. What I am saying is, before raising someone else on a pike because they are throwing sand in the playground maybe some of the experts should reflect on how they appear to the rest of us. You may be different but when you behave that way, are you really better?

(Photo credit: phauly www.flickr.com/photos/phauly/35555985 Creative Commons License)