Week 2: Overview of Social Media

• Which social media platforms seem geared towards personal use? Why do you think so?

I think many apps that can easily be found through the app stores are geared towards personal use. Instagram, Facebook, Youtube, E-mail, Twitter, blogs, etc. All of these sources of social media allow the user to express their interests, ideas, opinions, arguments, and are able to be published, or specifically sent to others, for their voice to be heard. On all of these apps you are able to personally post images or statements, as well as share other's posts. Whether the repost is followed by an argument or a positive statement, you can connect the person who reposted it to the initial post. Many personal details, such as thoughts or views, can easily be found through one's social media.

• Which ones seem to work better for business? What makes them seem more suitable to business use?

From personal experience, I know a lot of people who mention purchases after reading a Facebook/ Instagram post, or a Youtube video. For instagram, it's known that many models and celebrities are paid to promote products or brands. Although some people understand that the person is being paid for the brand promotion, many of the audience continues to purchase whatever is being promoted. Whether its a clothing brand, make up line, "fit tea", etc., the audience tends to follow those who have high followings. If the product is successful, through social media it may go viral and continue to have the brand or product grow.

• Do any seem to work well for both? How are they used differently?

I think they work well for both. If someone who listened to the paid promotion from the model/ athlete/ celebrity, and purchased whatever was being sold, they can also post their point of view of the product as the average person. Without worrying of being paid, or pleasing a certain crowd, the truth of the product whether it be negative or positive, may be explained. Instagram products are typically more personal because your following relates to images and brands you choose to follow. Facebook is a huge community of friends with different interests and you can find out personal information solely through their postings. Youtube is also a great way to find out reviews on products or brands. Many youtubers make review videos on their opinions of products which either warns or promotes the product.