Social media is possibly the biggest and the most revolutionary technology that has gripped the world, as a whole, over the past two decades. It was in the late 90s that the concept started developing, and with the launch of popular platforms such as MySpace, Orkut, followed by Facebook, it has taken the entire world by storm. From connecting with friends to everyday news, from incredible acts of kindness to celeb trolling and gossip, social media plays a vital role in our lives and mindsets. With an estimated 4.5 billion social media users, it is safe to say that these platforms have made a huge impact on the society.
Connections Made Easy
Gone are the days when physical distance practically ended families, friendships, relationships and moving away kept loved ones apart. Thanks to social media now, it is possible to not only stay in touch with everyone, but also to reconnect with those you had formerly lost touch. Owing to excellent video calling options, you can see them practically like they are right in front of you! Even if you don’t talk regularly, you are in each other’s lives and get regular updates. Social media has indeed bridged the gap of geographical distance like never before. It has also helped many people find like minded people to befriend and connect with.
Open Information
In the age of social media, any information shared is practically public. From home or work address to children’s school to present locations to regular routine, all of this, and more can be accessed by people via such platforms. Almost every little detail that one chooses to share can be obtained online, when everyone is basically just a search away. This has helped many reconnect with old friends they had lost contact with, over the years. It can also be a dangerous thing, if the said information falls into the wrong hands. It is easy to stalk and track someone using their own social media posts.
Encourages Sharing
Social Media has created a culture where people are learning to open up, share and talk about practically everything, no matter how big or small. They are sharing little details and landmarks of their lives and loved ones, they are also talking about deep personal traumas and things they normally never talk about. This has been highly beneficial as more and more people are learning to realise that their situation might be hard or unique, but they are never alone. It has fostered an ethos of immense support and meaningful connections. However, this has also led to an issue of oversharing, which can go out of hand for some.
Improved Awareness
As people are choosing to share more, they are also gaining the courage to speak up and point fingers at things or people that have affected or victimised them, in an attempt to protect others from facing the same plight. People from all over the world are now listening, understanding and learning about various social issues, which in turn, has increased awareness. Systemic, political and other situations are no longer restricted to staying local as everyone with a social media has a chance at having their voice heard. Moreover, social media has also become a viable source of news, that can be corroborated with some research.
Instigates Activism
Social media has emerged as a powerful tool in the hands of people. Awareness is not where it ends, it has also led to activism and actions that count. More and more people are now aware, and hence, speaking up, petitioning and working towards social justice issues. They are being more proactive in putting in their efforts to make a difference. This has indeed brought about a change in the general mindset of passivity, as people are springing to action and fighting against injustice. Owing to the reach of social media, we have also witnessed exemplary acts of kindness and people coming together to lend a hand in crisis.
Affects Mental Health
Public validation or vilification has a major impact on mental health, and owing to social media it is really easy to be on either side of the coin. It is possible to get immense support love and community on such platforms. However, on the other hand, rejection and lack of recognition can be really bad for self confidence as well. At times people end up being reduced to simply seeking attention on social media. Dependence on social media validation has poor effects on one’s mental health and self image. This is even more of a risk with teens and young adults, people in toxic or abusive families, and those who are struggling.
Shift In Marketing
Over the recent years, social media plays a major role in changing the way people purchase, and thus, it has also created a huge impact on the marketing and advertisement industry. Social media is an extremely sought after platform for digital marketing. It helps a brand reach out to a larger audience, than all other traditional modes of marketing ever could. It is also much more effective as it is faster and has a reach across all kinds of demographics, space and time zones. This has led to brands, both startups as well as well-established giants, taking to various social media portals to advertise their products or services.
Transforming Careers
With the rising importance of social media in our everyday lives, it has also paved way for several careers, that have been created solely for and through social media. Several brands are hiring dedicated social media managers, who are proficient with social media analytics and help the business improve its reach. Social media influencers and content creators, these days, are no less than celebrities, when it comes to popularity and fan following. Brands are also shifting to social media marketing by choosing affiliates and influencers to advertise products and services. Moreover, most recruiters also do a thorough social media research on candidates, digging their past posts and photos, to know them better, before hiring.
Social Media has become an intrinsic part of our social and personal lives these days. It has a deep and powerful impact on the society, which makes it extremely important to be vigilant of the content you share and follow.
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