If you have something to say, a passion to pursue and want a platform to do so - this is why a blog is important to your career and growth as an individual.
THE FINAL BLOG!!!
......or is it?
From a graded assignment that was mandatory for a class, to a outlet that I used to........ get things off my chest?
Blogging has somewhat become a personal journal where I can write my thoughts and ideas and if I got a “like” or a “share” along the way it made it that much better.
Here are some reasons the article talks about on the importance of blogging.
Blogs refine your thoughts
Blogs reward the creator
Blogs amplify your humanity
Blogs give introverts a voice
“Every time you post something online, you have a choice.
You can either make it something that adds to the happiness levels in the world—or you can make it something that takes away. -Zoe Sugg
Blogging is for people from all walks of life. From students, professionals, and businesses ( In fact, according to a recent survey by HubSpot, 60% of businesses who blog acquire more customers. ) SO the true question is...WHY WOULDN’T ALL COMPANIES BLOG?!
...it’s a great way to create creative content. ( if done correctly !)
HOW?
Here are a couple things that I have learned along the way to make your blog stand out.
Honest People can sniff out BS! If they feel like an individual is being honest, they are more likely to read what that person has to get across.
EYECATCHING Eye popping, bold lettering,easy for a reader to follow!
Original this goes without saying but POST YOUR OWN WORK! Or give credit when credit is due. CANT STRESS THIS ENOUGH!
and...CONSISTENT! . People are creatures of habit and enjoy predictability and consistency to some sense. This is especially for BUSINESSES!!! if your going to blog. do it all the way and not half halfheartedly
Social Media Delivered “ Blogs give customers an inside look into your company, and give an overview of your brand’s story illustrating your company values and goals, as well as your business’ voice and personality”
KEEP BLOGGING FRIENDS! SHARE YOUR IDEAS WITH THE WORLD!! MAKE MISTAKES AND LEARN FROM THEM! It’s the only way a blogger can be successful in this over saturated world of blogs.
According to a poll by the organization Lexis/Nexis, law enforcement agencies across the country are increasingly using social media as a vital tool in their crime investigations.
SOCIAL MEDIA...A TOOL NOW USE BY LAW ENFORCEMENT
The way the majority of people on social media post every little detail of their lives why wouldn’t the cops use this as a useful source? We post where we eat, sleep, drink, party, shave, shower...you get the idea
Article states, “law enforcement agencies across the country are increasingly using social media as a vital tool in their crime investigations... Eighty-nine percent of the organizations reported using social media to investigate, and 86 percent said they had success in solving those crimes.”
86% / 89% success RATE!
I have been seeing more and more stories where criminals are caught via social media. For example, there was a masked individual that robbed a Subway store only to realize his friend was working the register...The robber then proceeded to “UNFRIEND” the cashier friend on Facebook which began to raise suspicion!...Not too bright at all.
Oh and he got caught
I do not condone any criminal activity but posting everything you do and you whereabouts for all the world to see is not a great idea...
Social Media can be useful to cops in these ways
Real time information
Everybody knows somebody that knows somebody
People can come together and offer tips to help track criminals
Everything is usually traceable
Now that technology is moving faster than ever law enforcement, employers, and even SCHOOLS will go through a persons social media to monitor our every move.
INVASION OF PRIVACY? YEP! I understand if you did something wrong and was under suspicion BUT employers and schools!?!
People might say “if you aint doing nothing wrong then you aint got nothing to worry about”
right...but people make mistakes! but lets not turn this into one of those blogs...
But there is always a flip side to the story in which that there have been cases where missing children have been found and violent criminals apprehended. I am up for that by all means! But employers and schools should worry about what goes on in our private lives unless it is LIFE THREATNING
Moral of the story to my non criminal folk out there. Be careful what you post...
Unlimited choices and wedding photos being shared on social media are making weddings expensive, experts say.
Weddings are getting more expensive! BLAME SOCIAL MEDIA!
Its obvious isn’t it? People want the world to witness there weddings via social media. Bachelor parties on Facebook, wedding photos on Instagram, and Snapchat at the reception. Grooms and Brides now are able to purchase endless wedding items through platforms like Pinterest.
My sister recently got married so I can totally vouch for this article. ITS SAD but true...
Some interesting numbers from the article
In fact, the WeddingWire's 2015 Newlywed Report says the average number of guests at a wedding has dropped from 130 people to 120 people between 2014 and 2015. However, the cost per guest rose $22 from $218 to $241. About three-quarters of couples now go over budget.
I get it...people want there wedding to be extravagant but going over the budget? Most people won’t even think about the wedding after a few days and people are plunging down there savings for one specific day...
Quick Tips from your Truly
Invite carefully
Budget accordingly
Spend wisely
Ask for money instead of gifts LOL!
Now don’t get me wrong. I am not saying people are not allowed to have beautiful weddings!! All I am saying is stay within REASON! If you are the daughter/son of a millionaire and could afford it then by all MEANS! Order that 30 ft. cake and Frank Sinatra impersonator.
KNOW AND SLOW YOUR ROLE!
Love this quote...
"Social media has definitely influenced weddings in a way that couples are seeking larger-than-life ideas," said Kristen Maxwell Cooper, executive editor of The Knot.
The weddings I’ve been to in the past from what I remember were more intimate and private. The recent weddings have been FLASHY and I can’t help but feeling exposed from all the cameras constantly recording. I understand if you have a wedding photographer, but it’s a little scary when the entire audience is taking picture including grandma.
In a nutshell I guess its all about Keeping up with the Joneses?? Outdoing other weddings, getting the most likes from pictures and what not. I’ve even seen a bride on her phone almost 50% during her OWN WEDDING. WOW
SeaWorld dived into the Twitter shark tank with an #AskSeaWorld campaign this ...
Sea World attempts to to gain positive light through social media…..
The article of the title says it best people. The twitter campaign went just as people would expect. With years of being under fire for animal cruelty and documentaries such as Black Fish raising more awareness regarding the darker side of Sea world……………………………….
here it is…Drum roll please….
They invited the public to ask questions directly to Sea World in a vague attempt to “educate” it’s users. FAIL!
DID THEY NOT LEARN FROM THE MCDONALD’S CAMPAIGN TO CONNECT WITH USERS.
Here are a couple examples of Sea Worlds illustrious campaign in the works…
First things first. I personally HATE Sea World, ZOOS, and any establishment that entraps animals for entertainment. If it were up to me I would round up the CEO’s and board of directors and stick them into a 30x30 cage for 2 ½ years to see how they feel.
Now the fact that I am bias is out of the way, What was the social media department thinking?! Your already exposed to the elements…why make it worse for your self?
Wait a minute…an attempt to EDUCATE your users? How very disrespectful// Well Sea World. If you ever read this blog with only 3 followers here is my education to you…
Sea world violated the animal welfare act a COUPLE times.
SeaWorld separates orca calves from their mothers
Many Orcas Have Been Killed During Efforts to Catch Them
Orcas in Captivity Live Shorter Lives Than Orcas in the Wild
Collapsed Dorsal Fins Aren’t Healthy or Normal ( Sea World states that it is perfectly normal) BS!
Trainers Are Performers, Not Animal Experts
This is turned more into a emotional blog instead of pointing out the social media blunder that Sea World has gotten themselves into.
CNN reports , “The “Ask SeaWorld” campaign is only part of the company’s new marketing push. A website SeaWorldCares.com features videos, research and articles showing how it’s a leader in the care and protection of killer whales…The negative image hasn’t helped the company’s stock. It’s down nearly 40% in the past year and is about 50% below its all-time high.
As hilarious as the picture above looks its the sad truth. This is what a typical family gathering looks in my household. Constantly updating statuses, tweeting, snap chatting, and pulling out the phone to take pictures of the food at dinner...... the conversation levels have gone to a minimum.
Of course we all speak here and there but the substance that used to be present is long gone. It’s as if almost the mobile device has become attached to our bodies.
I had a friend the other day who lost his phone and told me he felt “naked’ and in the back of my head I would agree to a point.
Interesting article by Jessica Serra states. “ Social media appears to help us communicate and in turn make our lives easier, but it is in reality allowing us to access too much information and is handicapping us as a functioning society”
We’ve turned into a army of zombies who cant put our phones down if it could save our lives.
NOT ALL HOPE IS LOST. HERE ARE A FEW TIPS FROM YOURS TRULY.
Make everyone put their phones into a collective basket until the gathering is at it’s end.
Collect a dollar from any family member who slips up and touches there mobile device $$$$
Unless you are heart surgeon on call...leave the phone in the car!
According to a study done by Majid Zorofi, professor of psychology at an Islamic university, many teenagers claim that it is much easier to talk via text message because it allows time to think before responding.
WOW! THIS IS KILLING THE FUTURE OF THE YOUTH! If you always allow yourself time to think before responding, the mental quickness can be lost thus social interaction can be damaged for children.
A little off topic but...
dating for my self used to be much easier before the social media blow up.
meeting “TRUE” friends used to be easier
and attending social events was much easier believe it or not.
Here the take away. PUT YOUR PHONES DOWN PEOPLE! ESPECIALLY IF YOU ARE IN A SOCIAL SETTING OR GATHERING.
Business news, business advice and information for Australian SMEs
Two Social Media Influencers.
over 1 million followers combined
Tips on upping your game!
With social media being flooded with foodies, makeup artists, and etc trying to leave a digital footprint for themselves, Jane Lu, Founder of Showpo lists some tricks of the trade to make you stand out of the crowd.
Before we get into this on a deeper level, lets list some #’s to prove Jane’s credibility.
Article states, “ Today, Showpo has nearly 1 million Instagram followers, a Facebook community of more than 580,000 people and a YouTube account with more than 36,000 subscribers generating more than 3 million views.”
This obviously isn’t her first rodeo.!
Now to begin.
Focus on 1 platform first - its very important to dedicate specific time to develop shareable and content that has substance
Test and figure out what content works - can be based on the numbers of likes, shares, comments etc. then utilize the most popular mentions.
Be Consistent! - Nothing like persistence and consistence. Share new original content on a constant basis to create some presence.
Partner with the social media “influencers” - Network with people/groups who already have a established name on social media. This can get you a inner connection that can be beneficial to both parties.
Be open and ready for new platforms - after you develop a platform, dont become STAGNANT! Move your ideas and thoughts on to a new platform to test the waters.
With the constant update with technology, new social platforms, applications, and websites are being developed daily! Being aware of the changes and keeping up with the times is KEY to developing your social media persona!
After all this is said and done, this does not guarantee you a MILLION FOLLOWERS!. but what it does is provide a guideline that can be very beneficial if the individual is willing to put in the time and effort to follow these steps.
HARD WORK AND DEDICATION IS KEY>>>
NOTHING IS FREE>>> YOU GOTTA EARN IT!
There are those outliers that can blow up with a viral video or a pretty face but for us regular folk out here...we must stay on the path to the goal constantnly looking for ways to improve and expand creative ideas.
I will leave on this now.
Be influenced or become a influencer. - kensonbenson
With 65 percent of employers hiring from social media, it pays to "get social and get hired."
TIPS AND TRICKS TO GETTING THE JOB YOU DESIRE! + Do’s and Do nots
DID YOU KNOW??
Companies use automated searches when looking for resumes online.
Hiring Managers search all your social media ( FB, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat)
The obvious ( Grammar, Industry Jargon,and Knowledge) are all evaluated intensely.
Quote from the article “ A recent survey of hiring manger showed over 50 percent of candidates disqualified themselves from a job by something they posted.”
50%!!! Quite shocking I know...
Well it’s not a complete loss if you follow some steps from the article I posted.
Lets Begin.
Have a Professional profile picture ( employers look at Facebook)
Use correct spelling and grammar when posting ( stay away from “ chillaxing with the homies kooling with a brewskie” )
Search Everyday! (Linked In, Twitter, Facebook) Persistence is Key!
Use industry jargon/speak ( demonstrates knowledge and skill of a particular job sector).
Use links to your social media in your email, resume and other platforms
Have a professional email that clearly states your name. Stay away from [email protected]. YOU MAY BE SUPRISED!
LAST ONE...BLOG ! BLOG! BLOG . Article says “ Writing an article on a relevant topic to your desired jobs shows employers that you are serious and knowledgeable and can show off your communication skills.”
There are just some of the many great pointers this article has to offer
Social media is a great tool to building up a individuals “brand” but there is always a flip side to a coin. Social media can also be a persons demise if something foolish is posted.
The numbers and facts do not lie! Corporations are using social media as there main source to gathering information about potential candidates.
REMEMBER! What you post is permanent and even if you delete something that you ended up regretting, chances are someone already saw it.
This obviously doesn’t guarantee you a position but its a pretty darn good start.
Connect with your peers and stay consistent my friends!
Scammers have been worming their way into giant social media networks to trick people into giving over their personal and financial information. Over the past year, the number of phishing attempts …
5 scams people try pulling on social media......and what you should know!
With the plethora of information travelling back and fourth the information super highway, the opportunity for individuals to get scammed are very high. Credit card numbers, social security, and passwords to paid websites. It’s all fair game as far as the scammers on social media are concerned.
It is very easy for someone to Photoshop or video edit false information making it look completely legit!
Here’s an example for a Facebook scam.
Looks innocent at first to the naked eye and I assume that the majority of people will buy into this. Say we press that color....malware, viruses, or a key coder can potentially enter your device.
As a youngin in my windows 3.1 days...I remember downloading several viruses into my computer through fake downloads and what not. Now technology is more sophisticated, photos and videos can be edited professionally by almost anybody, and people at a point can be easily fooled.
Here are some different types of social media scams the article talks about EVERYONE should be aware of.....
Fake customer service on Twiter
Fake Comments on popular posts
Fake live stream videos
Fake online discounts (my favorite)
Fake online surveys and contests
Now there it is people. Be aware, prepared, and take a deep glare at the advertisements that pop up on to your screen.
My 3 TIPS
ONLY GOTO AUTHORIZED WEBSITES FOR TRANSACTIONS!
Always...and I mean ALWAYS look for the HTTP(S)meaning the website is secured.
Its obvious but it happens...but never give out personal information ( even if it’s needed to enter a contents or receive a free prize)
IS IT REALLY WORTH IT?!
Final and MOST IMPORTANT POINT!
These scammers try to blend in with the crowd to mimic a user so others will feel comfortable. Of course no one is ever 100% safe proof but if the proper precautions are taken you will definitely decrease the chances of being scammed.
A Montgomery County schools official said there have been a lot of fights based off what students have posted on social media.
School official states that Social Media is a huge problem that creates violent behavior among it’s younger users…
First things first…
It is much easier to type out aggression rather then face to face
Users can sometimes be completely anonymous and cause rifts among other users
Once you click…ITS POSTED FOREVER! ( well almost )
Consequences if any are not as harsh on social media
I remember in my earlier days when my high school had a unauthorized website that dished out gossip about students. SO MUCH DRAMA happened and this was in 2003!
WE ARE in 2016 where life for most is pretty much covered within social media. It’s gotten FAR worse.
The term “ kids say the meanest things” will guarantee transfer over social media. I see little 5 year old’s running around with more advanced phones then me!.
Handing a kid a smart phone is adding gas to a already burning inferno you just don’t do it!
I will be first to admit that in my past life. I would have LOVED to get my hands on a troller talking smack in the comfort behind his monitor.
Now imagine a whole middle school with students with smart phones vomiting there immature thoughts on to social media ANARCHY!!!
Parents…Take the phone away from your 7 year old and go throw the baseball around because it all starts with YOU!
Apparently a social media “pro” is calling out Facebook’s CEO Mark Zuckerberg regarding cannabis oriented companies being shunned away on Facebook....
Lets start with what social media (not just Facebook) already has to offer
Alcoholic advertisements
Cigarette Ads
Strip Club Promotions
Platforms that encourage affairs
So why can’t the marijuana trade carve it’s little niche in social media?
Now lets not turn this into a pro pot or marijuana is not a drug and vise versa...It’s about everyone having the equal opportunity to advertise there business on to a social media platform.
The article talks about how cannabis related companies are not in it for strictly the profits ( although very important ) but they want to create a peaceful community online.
***********There is still the fact that marijuana is illegal in most states so this can also create a issue regarding the type of content that can be allowed.
Some solutions I came up with so both parties can co-exist
Facebook can create exclusive communities in which content can be shared for people only in that spectrum.
Members of the community must be able to use medical marijuana legally in order to join ( in which ads and marketing campaigns for cannabis is completely free flowing)
And the obvious...any content within the community will not be able to leave into other platforms of social media.
I am not advocate for pot or promote use but I will say this...the businesses are just trying to make a living like everybody else and they should have the same freedoms as other companies.
FREE SPEECH MEANS FREE SPEECH! EVEN IF SOME DISAGREE
LeBron James and others bid the Black Mamba farewell after his stunning walkoff.
FAREWELL MAMBA!
Think I damn near almost shed a tear.
Social media is already flooded with posts regarding Lakers guard Kobe Bryant, but here is just one more from a die hard Lakers fan.
20 Years of excellent Service
5 Championships
18 All Star Games
Kobe received much deserved recognition from fellow NBA players, celebrities, and professional athletes. My Facebook and Instagram feed was overflowing with pictures, quotes, and farewells from loyal fans worldwide.
3 IMPORTANT HIGHLIGHTS
The Golden state Warriors who broke the NBA record for most wins in a season was overshadowed in social media by a Lakers team who is last place.
The Pheonix Suns roster was in front of a small television set watching Kobe’s last moments.
THE OBVIOUS…HE SCORED 60…
I will be the first to admit to saying that Kobe should have retired in the beginning of the year to not tarnish his legacy playing the way he did.
ONCE AGAIN. The mamba proved us wrong. He went out blazing leaving the image of why he was the most skilled player in the game’s history.
NOW THAT A GOOD FINISH!
-Tweet from Kenneth Faried (one of many! ) congratulating Kobe Bryant.
My message to Kobe that he will never read:
Thank you for 20 years of hard work, dedication, and entertainment. Los Angeles and the NBA will never be the same without your presence.
Social media. The two words that are known and used worldwide. While many use social networking sites for entertainment, local businesses are hop...
Small Businesses should use SOCIAL MEDIA!
These days most outlets of media are flooded by huge corporations advertising services and products.
BUT WHAT ABOUT THE LITTLE GUYS?!
Moms and Pops shops
Small Start Up Companies
Myself who started a cleaning service with a couple buddies
Here is a Solution
SOCIAL MEDIA..............................great way to promote. WHY?!
WORD OF MOUTH!
Friends trust each others opinions on products and services
Its Free ( well almost) advertising. so the real question is WHY NOT?
Social media can allow individuals and small businesses to get there names out there ESPECIALLY if you have a great product or service.
These are the few rare times in my opinion of course..Social media produces some positive results if done correctly.
I always try my best to support local stores and restaurant's because we all know they need the business more than say a Wal-Mart and Cheesecake factory.
Ode to the underdog! It is great to see that some small businesses are striving off of social media, A powerful tool if harnessed correctly.
FOR EXAMPLE...Yelp can make or break a business, particularly a restaurant!
Businesses should be honest, authentic, and attentive to there potential customers while using social media to attract business.
Social media is part of the DNA of the generation under 30 and they are rapidly losing the ability to communicate. But the stress of constantly monitoring our statuses and endlessly documenting every aspect of our lives via networks like Facebook, Snapchat and Instagram is taking its toll.
Home on a Saturday night while everyone is out and about enjoying there magnificent lives? I am and It might come as a surprise to some folks but so are other normal people. ! Do the lives or "portrayed lives" of other people bring you down at times? WHO CARES!? There is more to life then having 500 virtual friendships that doesn't contain any substance.
A recent survey conducted explains why Social Media is making us depressed and I am not a bit surprised!
It is not a secret that people only post positive things in there lives on to social media which can cause a little envy and jealousy and which can ultimately lead to feelings of sadness.
The article gets into the social problems kids can be faced with from too much social networking. The “face to face” interpersonal skills is vanishing because most of communication is done through a message box.
I remember when I was a kid we did not have Ipads and smartphones which forced us to go out and play. From personal experiences I have seen kids in preschool glued to their cell phones but can't carry a conversation work squat!
No wonder kids are depressed ! The lack of REAL social interaction can cause anxiety and stress which can cause problems in the future.
Social media just like everything else in life must be balanced and not abused. ...........................................................
Uninstalling social media apps during important times ( school, work, social events) can help balance it out for weak people such as myself.
BEING ACTIVE! doesn't necessarily mean physical! Read the written word! Exercise the body and mind!
Regime bans social media and ‘sex and adult websites’ in latest attempt to control the flow of digital information
North Korea has banned all forms of social media.
I honestly did not know that North Korea even had any forms of media circulating at all. North Korea is already considered a hermit country but is this not a bit far?
WHY am I blogging about this?
Because I have to ( JUST KIDDING! )
Social Media is a way to communicate with people
Social Media is a great source for news and current events
Social Media allows users to look up just about anything which can allow a person to expand there viewpoints
Well of course a communist country would oppose the last three bullet points listed. Social media and communication allows people to share ideas and knowledge which is a powerful tool if harnessed correctly. It is very sad to see that North Korea cuts off any outside communication to it’s people.
I assume the majority of social media used worldwide is mostly for entertainment purposes but for a country like North Korea it can spark some type of movement or evolution. Now North Koreans obviously have mobile phones but having internet access is non existent except government officials and technicians.
Here is the scary part. North Korea states that if anyone tries to tamper or “hack” a blocked website will be punished under North Korean Law. The article does not specify the punishment but from past stories, it will not just be a slap on the wrist.
Apparently this law is just temporary but I believe the restrictions will eventually take away the little glimpse into the outside world away.
A Pew research report shows us how the demographics of online dating have changed in the past two years. Some of the results are what you probably expected, but others may surprise you.
Online dating in the past in my opinion was almost taboo. It was like stepping into a unknown realm where you can meet the person of your dreams or your worst nightmare. Online dating in the past would be my last resort to finding a relationship but things have changed. I am guilty of meeting few people through online. I have heard many stories about successful relationships that even have turned into marriages. But there is always a flip side to a coin.
The article basically is saying that online dating is popular among all age groups. From teens to middle aged adults, usage of online dating has nearly doubled among all age groups in recent years.
I will be first to admit that it is far more convenient but is a relationship always supposed to be convenient? What I’ve learned in online dating and heard from various circles is that it creates way too many options among both sexes which leaves an individual looking for a “perfect person”. Too many options at certain times can create problems but who am I to say.Again this is strictly my opinion but I’ve begun to see a pattern. I remember back then relationships were formed through friends or social settings. Online dating almost kills the fun out of getting to know a person because all the information is pretty much posted for all to see.
The numbers don’t lie, online dating is here to stay. Social dating networking connects many people but at the same time but I believe the substance of real interaction is lost.
D'Angelo Russell is at the center of a rift within the Lakers after a video he secretly took of a conversation with Nick Young was made public, sources say.
Don’t the Lakers have enough problems on there hands? Lets see...
Worst record in the West, Kobe is retiring, and twenty year old point guard D’Angelo Russel making headlines regarding a video tape involving a teammate. I assure you the last thing the Lakers need is negative attention.
In a nutshell, the video shows teammate Nick Young revealing some sensitive information regarding his personal life and how he cheated on his fiance. Supposedly the video was “mysteriously” leaked and in which went viral across social media sites.
He not only broke the sacred code among MEN, but he potentially caused some real damage to other peoples lives. Social media can be a great tool to expose yourself in a positive light, but it is a double edged sword. The fact that information can travel so fast through the internet creates potential for serious repercussions.
As expected, this has caused a rift among the team to the point where teammates will not even sit with him during meals. WHY? He broke the trust. Once that trust is broken, it is very hard or damn near impossible to get it back. I believe this will follow D’Angelo for the rest of his career.
Some people are defending his actions and going so far as saying he is only a kid! BULL! The “kid” is twenty and went through high school and college!
Here is the light after the storm. Professional athletes from the NFL and NBA has been going on a twitter rage expressing there disapproval for what D’Angelo has done...A taste of your own medicine young point guard.
As for me, this act is unforgivable. As a die hard Lakers Fan you broke the sacred code therefore you are banned from tinsel town in my book. I thought the Lakers made a horrible choice when they drafted you and you proved my point WHY.
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