Blog Post: Facebook -- Friend or Foe?

Social network sites (SNSs) allow users to present themselves, establish and maintain connections. The study suggests that online interactions can provide a self-esteem boost, allowing users to find individuals with similar interests, hobbies, musical tastes, etc. SNSs encourage participation among those who might otherwise shy away from interaction. They can feel “safe” in an online environment, whereas a face-to-face dialogue might create anxiety. Satisfying online interactions could lead to more successful offline relationships. Contrary to what was originally thought about virtual communities, the study suggests “online interactions do not necessarily remove people from their offline worlds, but may indeed be used to support relationships and keep people in contact, even when life changes move them away from each other.”

There’s the idea that we all want to feel a part of something bigger than ourselves. “I have 500 Facebook friends; I must matter to society as a whole.”  Social networks are all about making connections. Connections to old friends, former co-workers, your current social circle, other people who really like Muay Thai boxing. SNSs give us a voice, an open forum -- even if no one is listening, there’s a satisfaction in making oneself heard. One could argue that social media was instrumental in electing our next President.

You can expect a social media backlash to start fairly soon, if it hasn’t already. I predict that several of the more “niche” social networks will disappear, but the big ones like Facebook, LinkedIn and MySpace will continue to prevail. And really, Twitter? Unless I’m trapped in a burning building, does anyone care what I’m doing RIGHT NOW! How about now? Wait, I just had a thought about the weather, do you care? Didn’t think so. 

Finally, I would be remiss if I didn’t caution you to Facebook responsibly. The Internet is forever. Do you want future employers to see your photos from 2003’s Halloween bash when you dressed as a Teletubby? Use the Privacy Settings to determine who can see your photos and comments. Or better yet, don’t put them up there at all. Ask yourself before you post something, “Would I want my boss or co-workers to see this?”  If a recruiter or potential employer comes across your profile, they may judge you based on things that aren’t even relevant to the job. Is it fair? No. Is it how the world works? Yes. With every new applicant, employers are asking themselves, can I spend 40 hours a week with this person? If they’ve already checked you out online and decided they don’t like your taste in music, movies, politics or humor, you’ll never get the chance to prove them otherwise.