People are asking a lot of questions about the social impact of social networking sites like Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and others on communication, relationships, and business. Do these social media channels really improve communication? Do these technologies isolate people and ruin their relationships or do they make building relationships a lot easier? Do companies really benefit from using social media in marketing?

It seems the role of social networking in the modern age is evolving faster than a speeding bullet. It has now become a massive part of our lives and whether we embrace or deny the notion, its impact on the society can no longer be ignored. Nowadays, it’s difficult to find a TV commercial that does not make a reference to a company’s Facebook profile or watch American Idol and not be encouraged to follow the contestants’ Twitter accounts for real-time updates. That’s how powerful social media is now – everywhere you look, there is something that relates to social networking. Without a doubt, social media has truly revolutionized the way people communicate, form relationships, and do business.

Communication

Communication among people around the world has grown drastically in recent years and social networks are becoming much bigger than they have ever been. Social networking media introduced us to Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Myspace, etc. and the world opened up just like that. It gave people the opportunity to be kept abreast of the most up-to-date events and happenings regardless of location. It allowed individuals, especially the younger generation, to expand their social circle by shared interests. It enabled businesses to organize social events. And lastly, it allowed self-expression and sharing of ideas that spark deeper interaction. Used responsibly, social media serves as an excellent tool in communication, both local and global.

Relationships

Forming relationships in the 21st century has dramatically changed due to the influence of social networking sites. Dating sites, which is a form of a social networking service, made a lot of people say goodbye to the traditional ways of meeting people because now, dating can be done online. PerfectMatch, eHarmony, Match.com, Zoosk, etc., each social media website expands the reach of people into our lives, and vice versa. But, of course, social media is not just about finding the loves of our lives. It’s also a great venue to make friends, expand our circle of influence, and simply enjoy the company of others.

Business

Social networking is also playing a very essential role in business and marketing. Social media marketing is now considered the best platform to promote products and services through online media channels such as YouTube, Flickr, Twitter, IBOToolbox, LinkedIn, and Facebook. Social media websites allow businesses to get more visitors to their websites and a huge amount of traffic without having to spend huge amount of money on advertising. Social media not only increase the number of potential customers, they are also very effective in raising revenues, improving reliability, and building image.

You cannot deny the huge role of social networking media in today’s world, especially in communication, relationships, and business. There is no doubt that the convenience of being able to communicate, form relationships, and do business online has made the whole world rely more on social media websites. But, as with most other things, this medium must be used with caution. When interacting using social media channels like Facebook, Twitter, etc., be sure to be in control of your online activities and don’t let technology negatively affect your social values and life principles.