In Part 2 of Brian Solis's Engage, Forever Students of Media, he touches on the fact that we should never try or even attempt to master something as fast changing and expanding as new media is today. The many forms and places in which social media exists like social networks, blog communities, microblogs, wikis, crowdsourced news, etc. All of these were formed and are here for the purpose of connecting people. The term social media means something different to everyone. Solis presents a few definitions such as the redistribution of influence and connections between friends, peers, and influencers. His definition of social media is any tool or service that uses the Internet to facilitate conversations. I can definitely agree with that. That is pretty much all I think of when I hear the words social media. He brings up an interesting point about conversations and says that they are not what build relationships, it is the act of earning trust, loyalty, and establishing significance.
He then goes on to explain in depth the different forms of social media mentioned before and how they are good and bad. For example, corporate blogs, a study shows that most who read them do not trust the information which is completely understandable. What company is going to make a completely neutral claim or idea about their own product or company? None. On the other hand the blog put together by Southwest Airlines I found to be a great tool in promoting the airline as a fun and exciting way to travel with links to pictures, videos, and links to employee blogs and videos.
I was unaware of social media types and all the things they have to offer before this. I have always thought of myself to be pretty up to date with technology such as this, but I never thought to look outside of Facebook or Twitter. This entire section was an eye opener as to everything Iout there and how it can be used to full advantage.
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