By Jan Carroza
While more and more users worldwide are jumping into social networking, many are still on the sidelines wondering what all the fuss is about.
Kathy Hendershot wrote about her friend that was worried it was all about pitching yourself and getting the most followers (http://virtualimpax.com/page/4). She mourned that her friend totally missed the point to reach out in social networks to meet people, enjoy and build relationships.
Our town filled the local library meeting room recently with folks interested in learning what social media is all about and why social media should appeal to them. I imagine many of them will join the fray and enjoy the experience. Some may try it and drop out, as many have, without finding a compelling reason or trying hard enough to make connections.
To the opposite extreme frequent users of social media tip the scale to the point of being “present yet absent.” As described by USA Today, some users tweet/text over 700 times a day and are often seen indulging while in the company of others: http://bit.ly/1D51tG. I agree with the professor who coined the ‘present/absent’ phrase that these actions are rude, like turning your back to your company and hurtful to your friends and colleagues. I expect a 12-step program on the horizon for these junkies.
I hope we can find a middle ground where we come up with a social media etiquette, obviously ever-evolving as we get new temptations. You see some of that now in groups where members are bashed if they self-promote too much. I thought it was great that Hugh Jackman stopped the show for a cellphone user; sad that he had to do it. You hear the announcements in theaters, seminars, meetings and press conferences to turn the phones off.
My hope is that all the confused, concerned and wary will try the waters and find successful, meaningful personal and business relationships. For the addicted, I hope they realize how important it is to cherish their face-to-face time with friends and business associates and learn to manage their social experience to get the most out of both online and offline experiences.
@social_ dynamics
Tags: texting render avid user ‘present yet absent’, Tweeting
