The Influence of Social Media has given rise to a different kind of communication where conversations are quick and information can be shared easily. Due to its far-reaching impact, employers are looking for pros proficient in social media platforms to fill key positions within an organization. The importance of social media in communication is a frequently discussed topic. Online communication provides people and audiences with information that was previously unavailable.

Social media allows us to share our views with a wider audience. Another big change that happened is that now there is no filter on the way you speak. It used to be that unless you spoke directly to people, you couldn’t get your message across regardless of your freedom of speech.

Essential Business Strategy: Everything is just a click away and includes everything from news to buying groceries. The ease of access offered by social media has taken over the traditional methods of shopping, reading the news and even studying. Education has also integrated social media forums and chat rooms to increase student interactivity, hold webinars, and promote events and courses. Social media is a key part of digital marketing, as it helps businesses across demographic and geographic boundaries.

Online Payments: While there was a time when online payments meant online banking only, today the dynamics have changed. Social media platforms like WhatsApp integrate options (WhatsApp Payments) into the app that allow you to transfer money to other people with minimal effort. The only challenge posed by these new payment systems is compliance with security standards. While this is a convenient way to send money digitally, security standards must be regulated to ensure customers enter a secure area.

E-healthcare: Social media has transformed the way healthcare services are delivered. Instead of consulting a doctor about your condition, you can now talk to a virtual doctor who will suggest medication based on your symptoms. Some doctors even consult with patients via Skype calls to better understand their condition. Although this is a great advantage for patients who do not want to come to the clinic, it also carries risks. The likelihood of unqualified people posing as doctors is high. Moreover, it is difficult to validate the credibility of a doctor on the appearance of his profile online. However, if used correctly, it can be a useful resource for people around the world. Greater Social Awareness: Social media has changed the way we are governed by making the process more transparent. Many leaders around the world have used social media to express their opinions and priority issues, helping people better understand the government they have elected. It has also limited the influence of political stakeholders on what information people should reach. Before social media entered the digital age, traditional media and the government were the only sources of information. However, this has now changed for the better. The flip side is that some organizations also abuse the power of social media to negatively influence people.

Disaster Management: Global warming has affected our planet to such an extent that natural disasters make the news every other day. In light of this, social media has become a saviour, making relief funds, information and support easier to send and access. For example, the safety check feature on Facebook allows you to mark yourself as safe in disaster areas, letting your friends and family know that you are safe, in case other means of communication are not available.

Social Justice: Social media has confronted people with humanitarian issues. Many social work organizations such as animal welfare organizations and fundraisers also use social media to raise awareness about issues in society. It brings activists together, empowers people to speak out against injustice (e.g. the #metoo movement) and helps people unite for social causes.

Social media is growing rapidly as a business function and offers a range of job opportunities. It raises awareness of what is happening in other parts of the world. Today, communication is instant via social media, email and text messages. We can send a message and get a response within seconds. Digital communication also allows us to share pictures, videos and stories instantly. Technology has changed the way companies market, operate and interact with their employees.