We’ve had it wrong all along. It’s not social media, but “media, social”. What we consume is media first, social second. We still consume news, facts, tips, advice, marketing, videos and other media primarily but as a benefit, we now get a social aspect as well. Therefore, it’s Media, Social and not Social Media.

Social Media and Media, Social have many benefitsIt’s Not About What People Had for Lunch

I still laugh when I hear someone suggest that Twitter, Facebook and other social media platforms are all about personal “stuff”. My favorite is, “I don’t want to know what people are eating for lunch.”

Sure, there are people with too much time on their hands, sharing useless information. I can’t tell you how many there are though, because I don’t follow them. You probably should not follow them neither.

Consuming the Same Media with a Social Attribute

As I wrote almost 2 years ago, “social media” now makes the the computer one of the most personable mediums ever.  Ironically, this technology that was once bashed for depersonalizing the office, can now be hailed as one of the best methods to be more personal with stakeholders.

The same media, content, message, marketing or other communications you received before are now personalized, targeted, specific and therefore more relevant.

For those who complain about not having time for social media, I must point out, I have far less time for cold calls than for information from a respected acquaintance. Likewise, I value the opinion of an expert whom a friend trusts than someone with whom I have no connection. Therefore, I find social media is saving me a lot more time – you just don’t know how to use it.

How You Use It Governs Your Perception

It’s really all in how you use it. Do I have friends on Facebook who still post information my colleagues consider useless? Of course! But they’re not following them. Facebook is about friendships and personal relationships first (at least for me). So if you’re following Foodies on Twitter, you better expect posts on food. However, if you follow leaders in your industry, you’ll benefit from industry news with a personal touch.
So the next time someone tells you social media is useless, I suggest a new response:
You’re right, social media can be useless at the office. However, have you tried Media, Social?
If you get a puzzled look, suggest they check out this blog post. But, if they’re confused by the term “blog”, I suggest you walk away.
Question: Do you think a more appropriate name would be “Media, Social”?