I found an article last week about how 59% of consumers use social media to “vent” about customer-care experiences. I mean, I know I do! And in fact, it’s worked out quite well for me thus far.

Case in point: My cable stopped working randomly one afternoon. No TV, no internet…clearly a problem. So I dial 1-800-Comcast for help. After sitting on hold for TWO HOURS (not exaggerating one bit), my cell phone dies because I didn’t have the patience or the time to sit at home while on hold. What a waste of two hours of life!

So the next morning I come into work and tweet about my cable being out and of course throw in a little vent about Comcast’s lack of staff available to answer customer calls. Within 15 minutes, I hear from @ComcastBill, and within an hour of my original tweet, a Comcast tech is at my house talking to my boyfriend and fixing our problem.

So clearly, venting via Twitter is useful! But how much is too much? I’m obviously using my Twitter account both personally AND professionally, so does it make me look back to complain?

In my opinion, no! Just because I work at a marketing firm doesn’t mean I can’t act like a consumer too! HOWEVER, the venting needs to be done professionally.

So here are my three tips for professional social media venting:

1. Only vent when it might actually get you somewhere. Clearly, I know Comcast is on Twitter so by venting I’m assuming they will contact me. Even if they don’t, my bad experience might save another person from using a company with bad customer service. On the contrary, venting about how much you hate your boss won’t get you anywhere but fired!

2. Don’t swear! We understand you’re angry, but don’t let it get the best of you. Going on a tangent full of expletives will not look good to the co-workers, clients, potential clients, etc. that might be following you.

3. Keep the rants to a minimum. Make sure your Twitter feed is a lot more than just a feed of rants. Your followers want a little more than a list of companies you hate. And for those of you that like to read rants all day, check out Kvetch!

So there you have it: the rules I follow when venting via Twitter. Anyone else have something to add?