I’ve Got Beef (theoretically)….
October 4th, 2007
…with social networks!! Despite the ups and downs, I am exceptionally happy I’ve made my move. But I wonder about all my other coworkers. I keep getting join Facebook, MySpace, blah, blah, messages and I’m wondering: what the heck for? So, I composed my list of pros and cons of social net works.
Why social networks are the devil
1. Social networks keep people glued to the computer and do not allow for face to face interaction. Think about it, how many of the people that actually comment your site will even talk to you on the phone, much less meet? I’ve only met one person who commented on my site and talked to another. Most everyone else, we met first than they read my site.
2. Can’t spare the .02 per minute it takes to hear my voice than I’m probably not that important, and you’re probably not gonna go the extra effort and be a nice friend to begin with so why bother? Use the computer as a tool not a shield!
3. There is always one more fad that you gotta keep up with. Hey, how much do you really need to function (that includes you, techy people)?
4. A social network is only as good as the amount of people that keep up with it…and we all know a crowd is as stable as bees wax in the middle of a Houston summer.
5. Advertisers are lewd, annoying and immoral. Why should my name be associated with these people?
6. If your marital status is complicated, then your life is complicated. Why should I take my time to meet you?
7. Can’t see My Space at work, but I get RSS from all the blogs I like to read.
8. I own my work and not My Space.
9. Digital “socializing” takes time away from quality efforts. What can you do with all the time you spend on these networks: travel, read a classic, learn a new language, try a new dish…..
Bottom line: If you don’t turn off your compu and leave the house, how the heck are you gonna eat some very expensive no fat, 100 protein, silk worm stew or check out Big Buddah or learn how to properly squat?
Why social networks are like two ply toilet paper
1. For non-profits and other group organizations this has been a great way to keep in touch with members and not send massive emails. (Yeah, but why can’t you do that on your own website?)
2. A My Space page is easier and cheaper to make than my own website. (LOL, cheaper? yeah, easier? I object. IT took me about the same amount of time to figure how to change the stinking back ground as to load Word Press. Plus, I have more options available to me. I’m a female, I can spend the 18 bucks a year it takes to look prettier.)
3. It’s easier to find people on these social networks. (So, why not just run a Google search?)
4. Eventually you are going to want to network because no man is an island to itself. (true, but I’ve gotten more use out networks like the Digital Photography School that have a purpose and provide real information. I stay in a niche.)
Here is my remedy for social networks:
1. Make a schedule time to turn off the computer and do it.
2. Plan an outing.
3. Next time someone asks you for your profile id, ask why, if it’s for worthwhile club you would actually attend a meeting than give them your email address and let them know you can only use a work computer. Otherwise take your purse, drink and food and say, “Sorry, I think it’s satan’s Digital Forum.” Walk away. Not many people will argue with you on that note.
Like minded people include:
1. Jawad Shuaib on the Shuzak social network…lol! Love the pic.
2. Zen and the Art of Non-profit Technology…Amen
3. And Dan Robinson’s commentary…do you really think the blogosphere is the next social network? Maybe, it’s just me but it seems to be populated with rebels, you might have a hard time gathering a majority into one cohesive action let alone keep them over time. Then again, check out the upcoming Blog Expo Nov. 8-9 via Yvonne Russell’s blog. Worth the pondering prospecting penny!
