The Facebook Initiative
How many Facebook friends do you have? 50? 150? 1500? Whether you’re new to Web 2.0 (or social networking or whatever you want to call it) or a MySpace convert or a Facebook OG, chances are you’ve added some peeps to your profile. I have 170 Facebook friends at the moment, which certainly isn’t a huge number. Still, that’s a lot of profiles to stalk, and since everybody thinks they’re worth stalking, 170 can be a burden.
(Note: I’ll still be your friend.)
When it comes down to it, “Facebook friends” aren’t really friends at all (otherwise we wouldn’t have started using the term “Facebook friends” in real life). When was the last time you actually spoke some some of your FFs? Do you even know what’s going on in their lives? Are you invested in these people, or are they just a profile-pumping statistic?
(Note: I have some Facebook friends to whom I have not spoken in ten years.)
That ends now. As in, today. Today, we start the Facebook Initiative.
The plan is simple: Take your friends list, divide it over a certain amount of time, and reach out to people with intentionality and interest. Here are some suggested timeframes:
- <50 FFs = 2 contacts per week
- 51-150 FFs = 4 contacts per week
- 151 FFs and beyond = As many contacts as possible per week
Some ground rules:
- Contacts may be made by phone (expensive), snail mail (also kinda expensive), or using Facebook messages (free).
- Wall posts, tags, pokes, and thrown sheep do not count.
- Form messages are also prohibited. (In other words, write a unique, personal note in each instance.)
- Neglect no one.
That’s right: Don’t leave anyone out. If you’ve got an issue with one of your FFs, this may be the time to evaluate your relationship and address the rift. I’m just saying…
I hope you’ll join with me on this mission. And be on the lookout for a message from me.
Enjoy the weekend.
Tyler
