As we have all learned, once something is on the Internet, you can’t take it back.

St. Louis County Government (@SaintLouCo) experienced this firsthand with their recent minor Twitter misfortune. After tweeting, “@MileyLikeABoss thanks for the #StLCo love,” in reply to MileyLikeABoss’, “STL city is downtown. The county is so much nicer,” the County couldn’t take back what it inadvertently indicated about the City. Twitter lit up, and everyone from businesses to the spokesperson for the Mayor felt compelled to chime in on what was said.

Twitter is a great tool. It not only acts as an instant news source, but enables companies to interact with clients and constituents, and give recognition and thanks. But, even with the best of intentions, it can wreak havoc when used improperly. (And, don’t get us started about U.S. Rep. Anthony Weiner.)  Some parties argue that people overacted to the @SaintLouCo tweet, but either way these recent mishaps highlight a rule every company should follow–think before you hit send!

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