Know your funeral etiquette for social media and online interactions
We live in a hyper-connected time. The internet age developed fairly quickly from a human history perspective, and some of us may feel a bit behind the times when it comes to what is appropriate. Here are some tips for using social media and other online tools while organizing a funeral and grieving.
- Announcement of death: If you are the next of kin, you may choose to announce the death via social media outlets in order to reach as many people as possible. However, it is a good idea to contact close family and friends in person before posting messages online.
- Live stream of funeral service: Many funeral homes offer a simulcast of funeral services for those who live far away or cannot attend services. An online memorial site allows far-flung friends and family to post messages: Some memorial sites and obituary providers function as a virtual guest book for the funeral service. A quick google search for ëonline memorialsí reveals many services like NeverGone and imorial if your funeral home doesnít offer this service.
- Online grief support communities: Online communities can be a source of great comfort for the grieving. Whatís Your Grief is a blog and support community that is recommended by several members of the Stardust Memorials staff.
More on this topic? Good Questions & Practices: Social Media After Death