Reading Reflection No. 2

The Art of Social Media: Power Tips for Power Users

1) What was the general theme or argument of the book?

The general argument throughout the book was trying to show different methods of using social media and how some work better than others. For example, you should never buy followers or likes on social media platforms. Instead, you should create or curate content that draws people to your page. Basically the overall theme was "content is king". He believed that if you show great content to your followers or readers they will continue to like it and share it with others. The author was also a firm believer in continually sharing content, giving credit where credit is due (or hat tipping as he called it), linking all your social media accounts, being concise and not making things too complex, and always responding to all comments and messages. 

2) How did the book, in your opinion, connect with and enhance what you are learning in ENT 3003?

I think the book connected with what we are learning in ENT3003 because when starting a business you will need to know how to successfully use social media in order to promote your products or services as well as connect with consumers. It talked about how businesses can effectively use different social media platforms to best engage their customers/potential customers. 

3) If you had to design an exercise for this class, based on the book you read, what would that exercise involve?

The exercise would involve thinking of different handles for each social media platform for their business they think would best represent the business. Additionally, they could create a bio for each platform and curate some content that would start the page. Every social media platform is used for different purposes based on the nature of the platform as well as what the societal norm is at the time. Looking into how similar businesses use social media could greatly benefit the student when first learning more about the business. 

4) What was your biggest surprise or 'aha' moment when reading the book? In other words, what did you learn that differed most from your expectations?

I realized a couple things while reading. The author has very little patience for improper use of social media, people who unnecessarily voice their opinions, use a negative tone or cuss a lot, hates SEO, and worships Google Plus. I lost a lot of respect for him after those last two realizations. One being that SEO is more than "tricking google" as he says. It has become vital to many businesses and a key focus in digital marketing efforts. Also, he says that Google Plus isn't a ghost town, but I have a very different opinion especially since it was announced that Google is shutting down Google Plus. I think this book needs to be revamped and updated to highlight the most recent practices of social media.