Which Social Media Should I Use?
Whenever the topic of social media comes up, it tends to start with Facebook and slowly spread into side conversations on Twitter, LinkedIn, and maybe even Google+. After a while, it may become confusing as to which social media you’re supposed to use for what. “I can update my status on Facebook – why do I need to sign up for Twitter?”
The biggest difference between all the social media outlets is the audience. Facebook has traditionally been used for close friends and family, as it offers a diverse range of features more personal in nature, such as photo sharing.
Here are other major differences between all the social media and the advantages/disadvantages to using each one:
1. Facebook
Facebook often considered the all-around social network. With over 800 million active users, Facebook’s main advantage is its population. But even then, it still has limitations. While you can post status updates, share photos, and send messages to your friends, it can sometimes seem “too open”. Almost anyone you accept as a friend can access your photos, previous wall comments, and other activity whenever they want. And unless you change your privacy settings (which, despite efforts, are still somewhat complicated), there’s a chance you could attract perpetual lurkers.
Advantages of Facebook are the ability to do a lot at once and being connected to the largest social network online. Disadvantages may include too much openness and lack of privacy.
2. Twitter
For the profuse status updater, Twitter may be the better option. With nothing but a space of 140 characters to fill, Twitter is a great way to stay constantly updated without wading through the photos, links, and other extraneous content found on Facebook.
Advantages of Twitter include a constant stream of updates from friends, family, new sources, and industry information. Disadvantages may include not being able to keep up fast enough and having occasional spam tweets.
3. LinkedIn
LinkedIn is oft-considered “the Facebook for working professionals”. Functioning as an online resume of sorts, LinkedIn gives you the ability to post your work experience and join forums related to your job. Many recruiters also use this to search for potential employee candidates based on the skills and qualities you list on your profile. This is a great, professional way to stay in touch with colleagues without risking compromising material that may come from photos and comments from family and friends (LinkedIn only has a private messaging system available for communication between employees).
Advantages to LinkedIn are business networking and staying afloat of industry news. Disadvantages may include the limited audience and not enough “socialability”.
