Users of social networks are handing out their personal information freely without a second thought. Those same users are then met with an unfair trade. While they are giving away their most treasured memories and details, they are receiving nothing but “Likes” and short comments in return. Dissatisfied by what they receive from social networks such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc. the users continue to take part in those networks in fear of rejection and/or judgement from their peers. This creates a cycle of vulnerability.
Indirectly, social networks are reducing the odds of successful relationships. While sharing personal information and anecdotes about yourself helps create a bond between you and a loved one, when that information is already available to the public it then becomes impersonal, leaving you with less to offer intimately.
While social media can be helpful for spreading word about a product or service and to promote a business, it can also be harmful for individuals who are using it to “promote” themselves. We need to treat our information, images, details, anecdotes, etc. as if we were a product or service. We need to review all the details that are accessible to the public and make sure it cannot harm us (ruin the product/service reputation). We also need to promote positive feedback and address the negative feedback professionally. It is also important not to abuse of social networking; only share information worth sharing, information that is beneficial to you and to the viewers. Everything that we do on social networks/online will be available for others to track and analyse. One wrong move could create barriers in a personal life just like in the business world.
Algonquin College Social Media Certificate Program 