We hear a lot about the negative effects of social media—information overload, more time online and less time face-to-face, smartphone addiction, millennials with no social skills, etc. What about the positive benefits? Social media isn’t something we need to be afraid of; it’s something we can actually be thankful for!
Social media has created the 24-hour news cycle. While it may be tough for journalists, it’s a great benefit to news consumers. We know what is happening around the world immediately. We don’t have to wait for the newspaper the next morning to find out, or even the 6 o’clock news. We have it right as it happens and we can watch the story develop.
Social media also keeps our streets safer. Social networking sites can help catch criminals quicker and help them prosecute them as well. They can catch people who brag about their crimes online. Or law enforcement can spread images across social channels to identify suspects. They can also warn the public of dangers and possible threats.
The benefit you probably think of the most when it comes to social media is building and maintaining relationships. Social media allows people to add each other on networks when they meet and potentially follow them and keep in touch for years. While you may not want to stay in touch with your high school friends, it sure makes planning reunions easier
Lastly, social media helps job seekers find work and employers find employees. Social media sites, specifically LinkedIn, are major recruiting tools for employers. They can see your online resume, your interests and likes and even what you do on your days off!
Social media benefits are endless. So before you start to shut down your social media profile, think of the good things it can do for you!
