Social media has become one of the biggest forms of media over the past decade. These types of media include apps like Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Youtube and many others. Social media is defined as a form of electronic communication where users shared information, ideas, messages and other content. Although these apps have become very popular, there are still commonly believed myths regarding the topic. Here are six different myths surround social media.
Social Media is Free
Many people that since social media apps are free to download then they are free to run. However, this is far from the truth. These platforms require tons of money to run and maintain so that the users can use the platform. The reason that companies recoup this money is through advertising. Paid advertisements allow for the companies to promote certain posts on the platform while making a profit.
Good Social Media Must Go Viral
Although the most memorable social media posts are viral, not all posts that are successful must go viral. The most important factor of deciding if a post is successful is if it achieves the intended goal. For example, using social media for one on one customer service can be a success but the post will not go viral.
Social Media will Replace Traditional Media
Many people tend to believe that social media will replace traditional media outlets such as television. However, this is not the case. Due to the size of traditional media, it will be difficult to ever truly replace it. Broadcasting is still the largest form of media and will be essential for the forseeable future.
A Good Social Media Campaign fixes all other Problems
It is true that a good social media campaign can be helpful for a company. However, it cannot fix everything. For example, good social media cannot fix problems related to customer services. Social media is only part of what the marketing team does for a company
Social Media should function independently of Traditional Media
This is a myth because both forms of media can coexist together. Using both can make it more likely for a comapny to achieve their goals. There does not have to be a choice between social media like Twitter or traditional media like television or radio.
Good Social Media must reach millions of people
Similar to the myth that all good social media is viral, the myth that social media must reach tons of people is not true. For many of the same reasons, this is false. Marketing is not only about reaching lots of people. It also deals with meeting the wants and needs of your consumers.
