Social Networking

Social networking is essentially a network of people. After watching the "Social Networking in Plain English" video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6a_KF7TYKVc), it became clear to me as to why social networking sites are of value to each and every one of us. In a nutshell, the video explained that unlike in the real world, where we are unable to see connections between people, social networking sites allow us to see these hidden connections. Forming and maintaining relationships become increasingly easy too. This is especially valuable as I transition from being a student to becoming a working adult. "In life it's not what you know but who you know." A very cliche but true statement that was reiterated in class this week, with regards to social networking. Connections, connections, connections. Where better to seek than social networking sites?



Forgive the speaker's rather monotonous tone – I'm hoping his good points make up for it! Maintaining good relations with others is SO important because you never know where the relationship could take you. Person A's boss might have a job offer which he shares on his Facebook wall. Person B is seeking a job and sees the post. Person B contacts Person A to express his interest, and asks if Person A can link him up with his boss. TA-DAH! The wonders of social network.

From a different perspective, social network can help people look non-run-of-the-mill jobs too. Of course, the more "famous" people have it easier:

(Credits: xiaxue.blogspot.com)

Yes, you read right. Singapore's top blogger (one of my personal favourites too), Xiaxue has gotten herself a a year's usage of 3 rental cars just by blogging. Much of her house renovations were sponsored too (sorry to rub it in). Her job here is to write an advertorial in return. Would she have been able to enjoy these perks if not for social networking? No. Advertisers get through to her via her highly influential blog, Twitter and Instagram accounts. (Heck, if not for social media, she would not even have a blog to begin with!)

Social networking has allowed people to connect with "famous" people even though both parties do not know each other in real life. Here's another example:

(Credits: @mydreambag and @yankaykay)

Fans and readers actively patronise blogger KayKay's Instagram store, which sells brand new and pre-loved designer items. Because of the social network that she has formed with her readers, her business on her e-commerce platform has been booming. 

Where has social networking brought you? As for me, I'm lucky enough to have received job offers (albeit rather small-scale ones) thanks to the social network. I am confident that social networking will continue to help me in the future. I'm never giving up on social media!