Today a coworker of mine, who is usually lovely, polite, and friendly, did something very rude and unexpected; she added me to her Facebook Group. Shortly after, I began receiving annoying email notifications about pointless wall posts, and Facebook Chat went haywire. It was annoying, to say the least, and I began frantically searching the page to find an “X” or any way to remove myself from the group. Finally my eyes found the practically hidden “Leave Group” link. But should I click it? Should I potentially hurt her feelings and deny her the ability to have me as part of her group. I ended up feeling rude.
There are certain downfalls that are vibrantly evident and distract from how great these Groups could actually be. As I was exploring the group and what I could now do within this new feature, I started to see exciting ways it could be used. Seconds later, I received another notification that my “Lovely, polite, and friendly” co-worker posted something on her Group’s wall. Thank you for the reminder that Groups can instantly bother everyone.
The missing link
One of the most important options missing from Facebook Groups is a choice to “opt-in.” Friends can add whomever they wish to their Groups, even if it carries the name “I Hate My Job!” Seems a bit inappropriate, right? Even though it is always nice receiving a notification that Jane Smith has added you to the warm and welcoming Group “Everyone Sucks”, it’s just better being able to decide whether that is something you want to be involved in before your name is associated with it. All we’re asking for is a button labeled “Accept Request” or “Join Group.”
A positive aspect of groups does exist. Once you are part of a Group that you are proud to associate your name with, the communication and social aspects are actually fun and helpful. Documents can be posted, Facebook chat tells you who in the group may be available to talk to, and everyone is included in pertinent information.
What group would you want to be a part of?
