Alexa Smith
as526112@ohio.edu
Truly children of the digital age, my generation is more social via media than any other medium. Face-to-face conversation has depreciated because we now have this ability to communicate by email, text message, Twitter, FaceTime and whatever other digital forms. We must accept that technology is a phenomenon that isn't going to simmer out, but will continue to get more and more advanced with time. Media has become a part of daily life for most people with a computer or a smart phone. And for those who don't, it's become nearly impossible to even watch a television show without being encouraged to visit Facebook or Twitter. Even businesses must obtain a social media account in order to advertise to as many consumers as possible. This is where a problem emerges: the separation between personal and professional. It's hard enough to keep up with one account, let alone two. But if the pictures taken from last weekend's Halloween party are seen by a perspective employer, I'm sure they will not find your ability to keg stand as a valuable asset. What internet users must realize is that anything and everything that is put on social media, is public, and everyone can see it.
Photo via PennSID
Spreading the Word
It's in any business's best interest to spread the word about their product to as many people as possible. With over a billion internet users, odds are the internet is their best medium for advertising. With over 230 million active users generating over 500 million tweets each day, Twitter functions to
"spread its users’ messages far and wide, regardless of the ethical questions the functionality presents." “Twitter wants people to embed. They’ve made it very easy and they’ve encouraged it,” Hilton says in "Is All in Twitter Fair Game for Journalists?" The thing about Twitter though, is the ease in which anyone can publish their every thought with such immediacy. If you're thinking about something, why not share it, and while you're sharing it, why not share it with everyone? I'll tell you why not: it's annoying and I don't care!
Public/ Private Split
Here poses the question of what you should share. On a professional basis, it may not be wise to share your political opinions or thoughts about controversial issues such as race, homosexuality, feminism, etc. However, on your own personal account, do what you want, but be mindful of the possible consequences. On a personal account, you have no connection or affiliation with your place of business (unless you list your employer on your profile), so they are not technically able to reprimand you for your internet presence. But, many people tend to let their true personality show on social networks, sometimes displaying less than attractive features that may not be very appealing for companies looking to employ you.
Professional or Lax
As stated in the "To Friend or Not to Friend" article, it is okay to have an internet relationship with those you work with... but within reason. When I say within reason, I mean do not "poke" your higher-ups, do not post cute cat videos on their walls, and it may not be the smartest decision to Facebook friend your boss, especially if you plan to kill time on the clock and check your page every once in a while. But, if something pertains to work, certainly feel free to share via social medias. You are totally allowed to be pals with your coworkers.
Social networks make communication easy and efficient. If you see that the photographer you are currently working with is on Facebook chat, and you have a question for him, go ahead and message him. You'll likely get a timely response, especially because most people carry a computer in their pocket these days.
Brand-Building vs. Social Networking
Social networks are called such for a reason: it is a medium for social interaction. You have your friends, your family, your schoolmates, your coworkers and that that kid from your Spanish class all in one place. Social interaction comes in the form of "likes," "comments," and "messages" all based on the way you advertise your brand: you. It becomes difficult to reduce yourself to words and pictures in a profile, rather than truly feeling someone's presence and sensing their vibes. This is what I present to the digital world with my Facebook profile:
Photo via Facebook
Though I am not married to Ryan Doran (I just can't bring myself to divorce by Facebook husband from sophomore year in high school), this profile accurately depicts Alexa Smith, as much as it can.
Personally, I keep my Facebook simple, entertaining and classy, just like me. For those who enjoy ranting or exposing themselves in need of a confidence boost...whatever floats your boat. But know your profile is a first impression, so make it a good one.
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