It's all "Pluses" From Here...

 

Remember when Google Plus first came out in 2011? It was rumored that it would replace Facebook as being the #1 social networking site, but once it was released it was received with overwhelmingly negative reviews. Today, less than two years after its launch, it may not have surpassed the "likes" of Facebook, however, it has taken storm to surpass the leading "post whatever you think" network -- Twitter. 

Twitter currently ranks as #4 on the social media list with Youtube ranking as #3.

So why does this matter? It's a HUGE deal for marketers and consumers alike. Everyone knows that social media is where the future is heading, and with more and more consumers using Google Plus as one of their main forms of online communication/social networking, it has become even more crucial for marketers to learn/adapt their marketing strategies to this platform. I guess now in addition to "liking," "tweeting," and "subscribing," it's time to start "plus 1-ing!"

We're All Connected

It really is fascinating to see how social media can connect billions of people in a matter of seconds. All it takes is for one person to strike up a topic of discussion, have someone else respond, and BAM! a connection is made. Many a times, a grand event can stir up many topics of discussion on multiple social media platforms making the event itself a little more engaging and entertaining for the user. 

The Superbowl 2013 aired earlier this evening with tweets, Facebook posts, and online messages surfacing the online web days, and even weeks, prior to the big game. Even during the game, the social media sphere was on a constant buzz detailing every call, play, move, and miscellaneous activities occurring throughout the game. Without having really watched the game and simply sitting in front of my laptop on Facebook, I was able to know almost exactly what was going on and, of course, we all know that Beyonce "stole the show." 

For someone, like myself, who is not an avid football fan, social media has really made me more interested in the large-scale event. I found myself constantly checking my Twitter and Facebook to see what my friends were posting regarding the game, and I occasionally even posted my own opinions for extra engagement. By witnessing my own social actions, I am able to say with absolute confidence that social media is today; it is the future. It is what connects us to the rest of the world. 

Social Media - It's in the Game!

January 20, 2013 marked one of the biggest games in NFL history for the Atlanta Falcons.On this day, many Georgians faced high blood pressure, anxiety, and not to mention the realm of social media was on a non-stop buzz for this was the game that would determine if the Atlanta Falcons were going to the 2013 Superbowl. 

From pre-game excitement to during the game rants to post-game reactions, social platforms, like Facebook and Twitter, were nothing but insanely active. Pictures were being posted showcasing one's game excitement and Facebook statuses were constantly being updated based on every move, call, and play. Both positive and negative remarks were posted based on one's reaction to the game as well as against the opposing team.

Through this social sphere, fans were able to instantly connect with their friends and create an online forum regarding what they found to be interesting, unique, or to just share what they were doing at the given time for the big game and have their friends comment, like, and share/re-tweet their reactions to what their friends were doing/posting. This not only increased game viewership to those friends who are not avid Falcons fans, but also increased viewer engagement with the game itself.

This game has truly shown that social media plays a great role in getting people interested and active online. It brought the entire state of Georgia together to unite and cheer for their favorite home team, the Atlanta Falcons. With this being said, I have only one thing to say - Keep socializing as it is the future!