This week, I got dumped into four Facebook groups without my consent (that’s a slow week, I’ve had some where it happens more than 10 times.)

It’s the Facebook equivalent of an unmarked van pulling up beside me, throwing a bag over my head, and chucking me into their vehicle.

Not cool.

I usually don’t kick up a fuss. I leave the group, grumble to myself for a minute and then get on with my day – still perplexed why Mark Zuckerberg, (who seems like a smart guy) allows people to do this on his social network.

Some people really get aggravated by the forced-Facebook-group-adding.

I’m in a group of copywriters (copywriters can be a rough crowd), and one Saturday night a member started a new group by dumping 1000 fellow copywriters into it, without their consent.

All hell broke loose! The guy started receiving threats, shut down the group the next day and weeks later he was still dealing with the fallout (he posted a number of the messages on his Facebook.)

I share this tale to save you the hassle and grief.

Facebook groups are awesome – I love them. They’re a great way to connect with people in your industry, and to grow and learn from others. I learn something new every day in my group, The Coaching Jungle (www.TheCoachingJungle.com will take you there), and I’m glad that I pulled the trigger and started it last fall.

BUT (with big, capitalize letters B-U-T) …

Start your group the right way.

It’s better to invite people in and have them join on their own, instead of throwing them in without their permission.

That’s how I started my group. I’ve never added anyone without their consent, and the group has grown just fine.

It’s better to have a smaller group of engaged members than a larger one where half of them are upset at being thrown in without their permission.

No kidnapping required …