These days, I’m getting a lot of Facebook friendship requests. I’d feel popular, but these aren’t from people, they’re from businesses, community benefit organizations, brands—things that offer no real connection.
I used to think it was cute. Heck, once upon a time, it was all that Facebook offered. But that’s not the case anymore, and though I’m not a “fan” of the new “like” pages, they serve the purpose that these non-people are really seeking. By connecting in this way—by “liking” something like a local business—I can receive announcements and share my enthusiasm about that company’s products and services, while still maintaining actual relationships with individuals.
Rather than ignore these requests (which violate Facebook’s Terms, by the way), I’ve decided to respond. Here’s what I sent to a local mall:
Hi there!
In an effort to ensure that my Facebook account allows for genuine relationships, I no longer accept “friend” requests from organizations or brands, despite often having a close affinity. I thank you for the request, and as an entity (and not a person), I will be happy to “like” you, or connect with your organization in a way that fits within Facebook’s Terms of Use.
Kind regards,
James
The the mall’s credit, a person with a name did respond, but she acknowledged that the account was used for announcing events and coupons. I can’t have a friendship with events and coupons, and those things that can be distributed through Facebook’s pages. Friendship denied.
