Early adopters were intrigued by the power of social media and many were more interested in the number of friends, connections or followers they could generate than the qualification of these contacts or the relevance of information shared. These behaviors fueled criticism from the naysayers. However, social networkers have been gaining experience with these new ways of communicating and advancements in technology have continued to expand our capabilities, enabling more choice and control. Social media is certainly not the only way to communicate but it can be a powerful way to develop and maintain relationships.

 

Social Media Can Actually Be a Remedy for Many Concerns

An ever increasing list of social media tools and networks make it possible for us to efficiently share our perspectives, ideas and experiences among communities that pertain to our specific interests. Counter to the opinions expressed by those who are still resisting, communication through social media can actually help to reduce unwanted mail, enable us to be more selective of the information that we receive, and make it possible to choose when and how we will receive it.

We should all be cautious about sharing personal information in any public venue, including social networks. To address privacy concerns, most networks include settings for different levels of exposure. Users should become familiar with these settings and make appropriate choices before posting any information.

 

Social Media is Gaining Momentum Among All Ages

Many resisters dismiss social media, claiming “It’s just for young people”. In fact, according to an August 2010 report from the Pew Internet & American Life Project, social media use has grown dramatically across all age groups. Recent statistics show significant growth over the past year in the use of social media tools among older users. Like younger generations, this age group is using new social media tools to share links, photos, videos, news and status updates with a growing network of contacts.

Whether social network members are sharing political views, product endorsements, frustrations and dissatisfaction, impressions from a business conference, or photos from an evening out at a favorite restaurant, they wield significant influence as they share their likes and dislikes with one another. Businesses and individuals can build credibility and respect by sharing insights and relevant information among social networks, or they can become known for selfish motives and imposing conduct. Companies should remain aware of the potential of social media, encourage their employees to behave online as they would in public, invest in relationships through social networks, engage and share their story among these communities or risk having it told by others.

Erik Qualman includes impressive statistics on the growth of social media along with insights about the significance to business in his blog and book, Socialnomics as well as the following powerful video presentation. "Good businesses realize that it's not all about the instant win of getting someone into a database," says Qualman. "Rather it is cultivating that relationship via social media. If it's done correctly, you will have a relationship that lasts a lifetime."

I believe that social networkers will become more selective about the networks they use, more focused in how they use them, and more discriminating about the individuals and businesses with whom they connect and share information. Because individuals are forming communities of influence and gaining more control of incoming content and advertising, smart businesses must continue to find creative ways to engage, build relationships, learn and reward their followers and customers.

If you've been resisting social media you can get started by signing up for an RSS Reader like Google Reader and begin following blogs like this one or choosing a network like Facebook, Linked In or Twitter where you can begin by observing friends, colleagues, publications and businesses that interest you. You'll certainly learn some new things and you may be inspired with some fresh ideas. I think you'll have some fun and you might be inclined to join in and begin sharing comments and status reports of your own.

 

1 comment(s) so far...

Re: A Few Things Social Media Resisters Should Know Great artilce on Social Media. The facts are startling (eye opening) that are presented in the "Social Media Revolution 2" clip. Wow! Thanks for the great info that was so easily viewed using your site. This may be the nudge that some of us "boomers" need to "dive in" to the social media "waters......without our umbrellas! By Pat Viars on   Monday, September 13, 2010

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