Week 1B: Social Media Use Today

 Social media provides a connection through an interactive digital platform. It is constantly evolving due to the functionality of its instantaneousness. It also provides a platform for greater connectivity locally and globally. People have a natural curiosity about others and the world around them. Countless improbable relationships have been formed, and then flourished, due to an exchange on a social media platform.

When I think about social media platforms the following sites come to mind: Snapchat, Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, Reddit, Twitter, YouTube, and TikTok. There are also a number sports related sites used by fans worldwide. Many platforms have translation available so your friends can be across the street or across the globe. Whatever your passion or interest may be, there is a social media site or group to enjoy and connect with other like-minded folks. 

Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and Pinterest are used frequently by businesses. Larger companies usually have many social media widgets on their sites. Local or smaller businesses utilize fewer and select platforms that work best for their business. These platforms are able to disseminate real-time information and teasers about upcoming events and offers. Pictures and videos posted about the business and its products provide free advertising and interest engagement. I've also seen business ads and shopping links on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. When needed, I've watched and used a company's how-to or informational YouTube video. 

Goodreads is a social media site that seamlessly blends business and personal usage on its platform. Books are posted with a cover picture, summary, author link, review posts, and links to businesses that carry the book. Reading groups, friends, and followers are also options on this platform that functions worldwide. Several musicians I follow on Instagram also effortlessly combine personal and business use in their posts. I believe this is due to the nature of their musical style and their personalities. The tone of their posts is usually personable and celebratory. I am aware that not all musicians embrace this tone though. 

My Instagram posts and videos are personal ones, even though I do follow local and world businesses too. Blade 1936 is a local restaurant whose pizza I love. They frequently post their deals and specials on Instagram. I have my ViewBug (photography platform) connected to my Twitter feed. I also follow artists like Brian Kesinger (Disney, Marvel Comics, and Lucasfilm) and companies like Adobe on Twitter. I use Facebook mainly for following posts from family, friends, and work, in addition to groups I'm interested in. One of my sons introduced me to a camping reservation cancellations group that is a great way to score a camping site last minute. For those friends who lose their phones but maintain their social media, I have messaged them via Instagram and Facebook to stay connected. Some platforms I visit daily, others weekly, and some when I need to check for up to date information.