Benefitting from social media sites

Chi Tola

To say that the social media has evolved to be a vital integration into our lives isn’t an exaggeration ,especially to this generation that is growing up in a world that seems smaller. The reason is that information and communication technology has become bread and butter compared to generations past making interacting with a complete stranger not so strange after all.

For many, social media platforms could be just a virtual place to express your voice or have fun but for enterprising ones, could mean serious business. You no longer probably need to move your mouth to talk to your audience but the good news is they will ‘hear’ you.

All you need to do is just click and you could be publishing a spectacular and informative piece that’s quite valuable for your prospective audience.

This column will continually discuss and highlight on your social media needs, do’s and don’ts, best practices and tips on how to maximise your social media presence for business and personal growth.

Let’s now look at the popular social media sites based on the following criteria: brand exposure, communication and traffic. Find out which one suits you and your purpose.

 LinkedIn 

LinkedIn’s tagline “Relationship matters” is quite appropriate as it highlights exactly what this social network does. It helps individuals and companies to build and maintain relationships.

It’s known for its edge at giving professionals an advantage to be quite successful, productive and on top in their careers by leveraging on and contributing to a professional & trusted network. LinkedIn is rated three-star in terms of communication.

LinkedIn is not spontaneous but does give you the opportunity to build an identity for yourself by responding to enquiries related to your industry to demonstrate your expertise. It has an ‘answers’ feature which is similar to a forum where users can post questions  and contribute, share their opinions and solutions.

In terms of brand exposure – LinkedIn is rated five-star. It is favorable if you intend branding an identity for both individuals and companies. It helps users get connected to people in the same interest of work and industry to build a network but you must create a complete profile to be able to leverage on this platform effectively.

Who should use LinkedIn? Professionals in all industries, job recruiters and headhunters.

How can you benefit from LinkedIn? For a fresh graduate ready to step into the working class, LinkedIn is a great first step to preparing your resume and highlight your strengths and abilities to attract recruiters. It’s also advantageous for job recruiters to seek for passive yet qualified job candidates to match them to the right profession/job.

LinkedIn is an excellent tool to propel you if you are thinking of extending the web of your career network, alumni network search is also available with your profile information to increase your chances of  getting ‘connected’ with related people.

If you are looking to develop/maintain professional relationships, LinkedIn does more than exchanging business cards. Also if you require professional answers, LinkedIn is most appropriate but be sure to phrase your questions in a direct and succinct manner to make it sound, authentic and more people will be willing to share.

Facebook

This is the fastest growing popular online platform that enables customisation of user interface and installing of applications for a better experience.  In communication, Facebook is rated four-star because it is convenient and simple, allowing ease and swiftness of communication.

Accessibility via mobile phones is an increasing phenomenon making it easier for users to share opinions, join groups, hold events and participate in contests conveniently. With brand exposure, Facebook is rated four-star. It allows direct and third party connections to your brand. Users can see your product and advert as long as their friends are connected to you or your brand. They are able to view the necessary information that they need to get to know you.

Who can use FB? 

Freelancers, entrepreneurs, organisers, advertisers and anyone willing to connect with people.

How can you benefit from Facebook? If you plan to create a professional online portfolio for networking purposes and attract your target audience, FB is a useful channel. Just be mindful and smart with the content you are publishing. If you are searching for a convenient way to get connected to your friends and acquaintance or family, FB is appropriate. Are you organising public events/gatherings? Use FB to send out your invitations because invited people are also able to invite others depending on the privacy level you select. Or if you seek advertising to reach a particular audience or demographics, FB comes in handy, making your advert to appear to those who have indicated interest in your profile.