Is social media really important?

So we’re in this class called emerging media, where much of our study revolves around social media.  Is this really a lifestyle change in society worth learning, understanding, and adding to our own daily routines?  Or is this a come-and-go technology that will be replaced with something bigger and better, only to leave all the marketing efforts and businesses wondering, “why did we put so much time and money into that?”

My opinion is YES, it is definitely worth getting involved in and understanding its power and value in both social aspects and marketing.  Yes it’s a norm for the younger generations (with over 90% of them belonging to a social network,) but it is fast becoming popular with people over the age of 50 too.

From a marketing standpoint, if you aren’t involved in social networks, you are soon to be left behind.  You not only need to learn about it and understand it, you need to be actively involved. 

Is this “emerging media” class necessary?  Definitely!  In fact it could almost be a degree in itself.  For someone like me who is basically new to most features of emerging media, it’s a lot to cram into a single class.  And, I’m sure companies employ or are constantly seeking individuals with expertise and experience in how to navigate and market via social networks and other forms of emerging media.  It’s a job description of its own, not even including other forms of marketing that go into an entire campaign.

I found this great YouTube video that really nails down the importance of social media.  I’ve watched it a few times, and am amazed at some of the facts. 

In fact I think I’m going to show it to a few of my family members who are very out-of-touch with technology and think social networks are just chat rooms for predators and hackers.  There are still so many people who just don’t understand what social media is all about.

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