This blog features tips about how your BFF can help you stay safe and smart on social media. Haven’t we all had a similar experience? You’re out shopping with your BFF for a new pair of jeans, and you come out of the dressing room wearing a pair that’s too tight, too short, or just doesn’t fit in a flattering manner. “Hm, I think you’d look better in this,” your BFF says, handing you a different pair with a thoughtful look. After trying on the new pair, you realize you actually do look much better, and you’re glad that your best friend is there to make sure you look your best. Your best friend plays the same role on social media. They’re the ones who have your back. No one is perfect, which is why young adults can help their best friends stay safe and smart online. Here's how your bff can help you be smart on social media.

1. Tell them not to post embarrassing pictures of you

Creating a strong social media presence means picking and choosing the right moments to share to the world. So much effort goes into presenting ourselves in daily life, and young adults should use social media in the same way. When going through photos together from an outing, for example, make sure there’s an agreement that whoever is posting will only upload photos that showcase everyone in a positive light. Download the embarrassing ones to your desktop and delete them from your profile.

2. Ask them for constructive criticism

“Do you think this dress looks okay?” and “how do you like this shirt with these jeans?” We ask our best friends their opinions on our choices because we trust what they have to say about us. There’s no Dislike button on Facebook, but you want to make sure you can proudly present everything you share online. Ask your friend to critique your profile the way you would have them critique a homework assignment. Listen to what they say about you so you can improve how you present yourself online.

3. Have them continually hold you accountable

Your BFFs can help you stay safe, smart, and positive on social media by telling you that you shared an inspirational post about volunteering at the local animal shelter and it made them want to volunteer, too. Or, that the Robert Frost quote you shared inspired them to read a poem they may have otherwise never read. Giving honest feedback to each other is the best way friends can help each other online.