The use of these virtual platforms has lights and shadows that it is better to know in advance.
Twitter, Facebook, Instagram … There are countless applications and social networks, both for adults and young people. Social networks have different functions, different platforms and are aimed at a specific audience very active on the Internet and interested in maintaining contact with many people or making themselves known in a public way.
It is a technological revolution that was installed in our lives at the beginning of the millennium and it seems that its exploitation is infinite. Profit or scourge? Below you can see 12 advantages and 12 disadvantages of social networks.
Advantages of social networks
You always insist on the bad habits that are acquired in social networks, but not everything is bad nor will it lead us to the path of perdition.
1. Global connectivity
These portals allow us to connect with those friends or family with whom we have long lost contact. If we are going to live a season outside, it becomes an essential tool. RHOC: Vicki Gunvalson Out — Andy Cohen Reacts To Her Departure.
2. Virtual groups
It is one of the big pluses. Groups, of any kind, allow you to exchange impressions and / or resolve existing doubts. In part, they have replaced Internet forums.
3. Instant messaging
Not long ago people had only two means of communication: physical letter or cable telephone, which did not always offer a good service. Thanks to the social media chats we can communicate with who we want in real time.
4. Additional information
It is an effective alternative against conventional media that until recently monopolized the sector. Now it is much easier to find other sources of information.
5. Advertising
Info jobs, Job talent or LinkedIn are the most used portals to find work. The current difficulties in seeking employment have turned these social networks into genuine showcases to publicize our professional skills.
6. Skills exchange
Learning languages, teaching a trade in exchange for another or sharing hobbies is another feature that has allowed a new way of socially relating.
7. Project a business
Companies can contact potential customers, potential candidates or give greater visibility to the product, which they offer in a more efficient way.
8. Transparency
Social networks are probably the most transparent and universal means of communication of all, since there are no social or cultural barriers that prevent their use.
9. A democratizing medium
In line with the previous point, on social networks we can publish any type of information, photo, advertisement or even texts about political ideologies.
10. Power activism
Nowadays, corruption, crime or some social inequalities come to light thanks to the collective complaint that campaigns can be carried out on Facebook or Twitter. One of the advantages of social networks with a greater impact on the political landscape.
11. Knowledge
You can find countless people who share their academic knowledge through social networks. There are even those who hang videos as a virtual class.
12. Versatility
Over the years, these portals have been mutating their functions. What started as a page where we can upload our best photos can also be a way to meet people with similar interests or to look for information. What does the future hold?
Erika White is a graduate of Parsons School of Design. Erika is based in Manhattan but travels much of the year. Erika has written for NPR, Motherboard, MSN Money, and the Huffington Post. Here at Morning News Ledger, Erika covers entertainment stories, focusing on performance arts and culture.