Why is there such inconsistency in the use of email addresses across social media websites?

In my line of work I connect with internet users across many platforms and social media websites.  It surprises me to see how many times someone linked with Twitter, for example, has a different email address from their LinkedIn or Facebook account.  Inexplicably, some social network users even have a specific address for each service.  If you are guilty of this inconsistency then take heed, it is costing you followers.  Let me explain why.

Many social media websites have a “Find Friends” service.  This often works by connecting to your own address book and linking your email contacts with accounts on the social media website. You will have noticed this facility when signing up to a social media network.  Usually you are first asked “Do you want us to search your address book for users?” before being directed to the “Find Friends” service.

So take advantage of this facility, but use the same address across social networks.  In this way it will be easier for users of Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn, etc., to find, follow, and make a connection with you when they in turn use the “Find Friends” service.

The advantage in address consistency applies equally to branding. If you have, for example, a brand name on Twitter, you will benefit by using it not just for general communications but order confirmations.  The likelihood is that your customers will save your details in their address book.  When they subsequently search for connections, your brand will then appear.

If you are a company employee and recognised mainly by your business email address, the same principles in consistency apply. Should you later change employers, update your email address on social network sites.

One last piece of advice.  Whenever you sign up to social media networks ensure you select any options (such as the Twitter setting) of “Allow contacts to find me using my email address.”  

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