Sep
8
Written by:
Laurie Wakefield
Wednesday, September 08, 2010
I continue to be surprised by the number of people resisting social media. Many of these naysayers are still complaining that social networking has no real value, that it is a waste of time, invading privacy and opening more avenues for unwanted information and distractions. Many still fail to see the communication efficiencies made possible through these networks. Social media gives participants insight into significant trends and creates platforms for learning, sharing and engaging in the communities that interest them most. Social media icons and invitations to join and follow are popping up everywhere. The way that we communicate is changing and those who continue to resist are falling behind - it may be time to reconsider.
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.
Social Media Raises the Bar for Marketers
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.
Social Media Can Help Individuals and Businesses Develop and Maintain Rewarding and Lasting Relationships
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."
The Growth of Social Media Cannot Be Ignored
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.
Copyright ©2010 Laurie Wakefield
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
|