For business, the current conundrum about social media is "should we or shouldn't we?" That is the question many are asking - from the large corporate to the self-employed professional.

As you know, there's always the yin with the yang. Along with the many benefits it offers, I equate social media with modern-day youth: no respect and it talks back.

With smartphones giving instant internet access, and video and photo-taking ability, no business is immune from the risks of having its weaknesses broadcast: tetchy waitress, line too long, product that didn't live up to expectations ...

Conversations are being held on the web with or without your consent. They travel fast and can wreak havoc. How do you manage this risk?

Here's a five-step plan, using the analogy of parenthood.

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Source: Debbie Mayo-Smith, www.nzherald.co.nz