6 reasons everyone should have an understanding of social media
Whether you avoid it because it’s time-consuming or you simply don’t know how to use it, it’s difficult to exist in the modern world without a basic understanding of social media. Avoiding it like the plague may hinder you not only in your social life, but in the world of business too.
Here are 6 compelling reasons that everyone should have at least a basic knowledge of social media:
1. It’s crucial to business
Social media has become an essential for businesses and a crucial part of digital marketing – and it’s no surprise considering how effective it is at marketing products and creating a brand identity. A recent Facebook survey found that 60% of Instagram users say they find new products using the platform. No matter what industry you work in, it’s important to have a basic understanding of how social media contributes to the overarching business strategy.
2. Social media drives website traffic
If you have a side hustle you want to promote, or a hobby you want to showcase and you’re looking to drive traffic to that website, then social media will help.
Social media is increasing in importance as an SEO ranking signal, which is not only great for anyone looking to work in social media, but also great for normal folk wanting to drive traffic to their site. The more engagement you have on social media, the more likely google is to respect your site’s authority – it’s a win win.
For that reason, social media is invaluable to anyone with their own business or anyone looking to drive traffic to their site.
3. Social media can help you get noticed
Social media provides a platform for your voice, which can be really helpful if you’re trying to land a job in a particular sector. It doesn’t really matter what industry you’re trying to break into – be it project management, cyber security or digital marketing – if you can show that you’re engaging in industry conversations and are up to date with trends, it’ll make you stand out to potential employers.
See also: How to stand out on Linkedin
4. A negative profile can give a bad impression
Having a basic understanding of social media means also being aware of what not to post. Yes, it might only be a harmless picture of you on a night out, but if your setting aren’t private then the whole world can see it. That includes potential employers, colleagues and customers.
Be careful not to overshare too. We’ve all heard the stories of people who’ve been fired for defaming their employer across Facebook. Don’t be that guy.
5. Everyone else is doing it
As a general rule, doing stuff because other people are doing it isn’t the best idea. But on this occasion, it is.
Whether you want to make a name for yourself, build your business network or simply showcase your work or hobbies online, a knowledge of how to use social media is essential. The figure for social media users worldwide is 3.196 billion, which is up 13 percent year-on-year so if you’re not online you’re missing out on the opportunity to connect with, well, nearly half of the planet.
6. It does what it says on the tin
Social media is sociable. Amongst all the great career-based reasons to have a good understanding of it, the main reason it’s so great is simply because it helps people stay connected.
Need to chat to your friend in a different timezone? Facebook video call. Want to see daily videos of your friend’s new kitten? Instagram stories. Social media gives you all the fun of a real-life social life, from the comfort of your sofa… what’s not to love.
If you want to learn more about social media, or are interested in becoming a social media specialist, then get in touch.