Social networking

Social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat, and many more have really paved the way for many such as businesses, people, students, etc. to really share and connect at convenience with the world. Social networking sites are great for society, promoting increased communication and connection between hundreds of millions of people throughout the world. While some people do argue that the dangers of online networking far outweigh the benefits, it is clear that this is not the case; rather it is the other way around. Social networking can be defined as any website or other type of online communication that allows people to interact with each other.

What does this mean, for activists, businesses and other users. Well, Users may reconnect with old friends, and get to know people they have become acquainted with, but do not necessarily talk to often. Social networking sites also offer comfortability. Many people prefer talking to others online, as it helps them to overcome social anxiety. They do not have to deal with the stress of what others think of Creative expression can be taken to a whole new level online. Social networking sites provide free messaging, blogging, photo and video storage, games, and event invitations to their users. Unique displays of art, music, and writing can be found everywhere on these sites.

As for activists and businesses, social media give them the access to help promote their brand for free on their social platform. And as for activist they get to voice their opinions and gain follower to help support their fight. Businesses can use Online marketing campaigns to widen the chances for more people to see the brand. By being able to understand their consumers based on their social media platforms, business are able to develop and alter products and services to fit the needs of their customer. Not only are they able to develop products, they're able to market and help recruit candidates that fit well within their company. In the article, “Social Networking Technology Boosts Job Recruiting”, Frank Langfitt states, “Professional recruiters have started hunting for job candidates using social networking technology — like the kind found on the popular sites MySpace and Facebook. Social networking technology is absolutely the best thing to happen to recruiting — ever.” This goes to show you the power of social networking for business. It elevates the work environment and makes it easier for businesses to engage and grow.

Although there are many great positivity and advantages to social media platforms, one big disadvantage of these social platforms, is knowing how to use them at your own risks, because once its on there it stays on there. the amount of information we share, and although it says private nothing really is private. According to the article "Leaving ‘Friendprints’: How Online Social Networks Are Redefining Privacy and Personal Security", it states, "A generation is growing up with social networking web sites such as Facebook and MySpace, casually posting accounts of their lives for their friends — and the world — to see. Few of these users realize that the information they post, when combined with new technologies for gathering and compiling data, can create a fingerprint-like pattern of behavior. The information provides opportunities not only for legitimate business purposes, but also for the nefarious aims of identity thieves and other predators." This goes to show you how dangerous and how nothing is really secured online. so one must be mindful of the info they share online, as it being stored and mined.