#Socialmedia has transformed the way people communicate and live their daily lives. Who would have thought that with the internet becoming available to the public in 1995, it would have evolved to everyone including businesses living their daily lives through social networks? Today social media has such an influence on everything and its platforms contribute to society as well.
Crisis Communication
During a crisis, we use social media platforms as forums for support and safety information. Social media has been the only viable venue for communication after certain disasters such as #SuperstormSandy where the majority of people were without power. However, some cell phone networks and WiFi towers were still functional. This allowed people to access Facebook and they were able to let their friends and family know they were safe. And, this week with the tragedy of the Boston Marathon bombings, the social media community offered support for those who were affected. In addition, Twitter donated a promotion hashtag #OneBoston which is estimated at a value of $200,000 to lend support to victims. The Boston Police Department asked people to use social media for communicating so phone lines would be clear and they also tweeted up-to-the-minute information on what areas to avoid.
Crime Solving Assistance
Police departments are using social media networks to gather evidence against criminals. The NYPD recently arrested 60 gang members who bragged about their violent crimes on social media. In Oregon, people have been arrested for bragging on Facebook that they were drinking and driving.
Political Influence
People use social media platforms as a voice. Last month’s same-sex marriage legal battle spread like wild-fire throughout social media networks while the Supreme Court was hearing the cases. By creating red equality symbols, brands contributed to the support for same-sex marriages.
Global Connection
With social media you can keep up-to-date with family and friends worldwide. You no longer have to pay for international and long distance phone calls. You can look at their pictures and communicate with them on the social media platforms.
Marketing Industry Transformation
By 2017, social media ad revenue will reach $11 billion according to a new BIA/Kelsey report. Brands can now personally engage with their customers and that’s something they could never do before. In addition, people enjoy engaging with brands and like the responses they get when they comment on a brand’s Facebook post. Social media is transitioning to becoming the standard for handling customer service as well. Brands realize that interaction with their consumers fuels sales and they’ve shifted their marketing campaigns to focus on social marketing.
Source: www.socialmediatoday.com
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