Is it just me or are people finally starting to realize that social media is here to stay? Are they recognizing that communication is changing again forever and they need to embrace it?
Of course living here in Indianapolis, Indiana it’s impossible to really see first-hand what is going on in other parts of the world. You have to rely on outside sources to keep you updated. But still I get the feeling that people and businesses are finally starting to get it. I can definitely say that I have seen a huge shift in my connections toward people becoming less resistant. More are really starting to embrace this powerful tool we call social media.
I see people posting a new Facebook status every day that I never thought would be wanting to share updates with the rest of the world. Why? Because these are the same people that I was working with a year ago that ran for the hills when anyone mentioned Facebook. I, of course, did my best to explain the value but for a lot of people it’s really just a matter of time. Now they are making new connections every day and many share with me their surprise that it’s actually beneficial.
I see businesses every single day joining Twitter to find out what their customers are really saying and keep up with the latest news. Some are even running contests to grow their following and expand their network. They realize that this will later benefit them when those people are making purchasing decisions.
I see people creating events and promoting them through social media. They realize that it’s one of the best tools to increase awareness and attendance. Most seem to even realize that the people they meet at these events will eventually be their best friends and business partners.
Being in the Internet marketing/social media industry, I understand that not everyone will understand the full potential and that everyone will use it differently. I also realize that my small sampling of people is not reflective of “everyone.” Nonetheless I am still seeing a significant trend. The points above were not made to show great case studies, but to illustrate that people of all backgrounds are finally starting to come around. Posting a status on Facebook definitely does not mean you are gaining any type of value from your post, but it does show that plenty of people are finally there and more are becoming active users.
If you read blogs from anyone discussing social media, you will no doubt find posts all about convincing people who resist social media that it’s here to stay. You will see things like, “your business needs to change now, otherwise you won’t be in business much longer.” So let me ask you this – are people finally starting to catch on?
Posted by derekmcclain 
