Musings on Social Media

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Humankind has always been fond of tools and discovering the same led them to innovate things to make life easier. One of the modern world’s greatest innovations is the development of social media. It’s not only a part of human lives these days but also works as a catalyst in everyday chores. From common public to the government, everyone uses this splendid technology.

One cannot imagine survival without social media, as the urge in human beings to communicate has made us addicted to staying connected. Almost every person, organization, and even the government is using this computer-mediated communication tool, and there are many success stories streaming all over the world which continue to strengthen the hold of social media over all of us.

A great instance of the positive harnessing of social media’s power is BJP’s persuasive use of it. From their campaign two years ago to Sushma Swaraj’s heart warming twittering, the party’s social media game is pro all the way.

There are darker aspects to social media’s use as well, and its disruptive effect was witnessed in all its horror in Wani’s anti national social media activity. The ripple effects of that employment of social media are still felt in Kashmir, long after Wani is gone.

Tech savviness is a power these days that is beginning to define able leadership. It means a wider reach, an unrestricted platform, a personal connect, and the kind of power that only the virtual world can grant. It also can be monitored for public sentiment, preferences and reactions. It is proving a great advertising and market research tool, and this is making it indispensable to businesses, organisations and governments.

But these are ephemeral truths, mired in the now. Soon social media rules may change, its existence and uses may change just as quickly as they were formed. To survive one must remain the master of these tools and not a slave, and always be prepared for change.