briannamwood

[briannamwood]

Week 8: Implementation

Hi everyone!

Implementing social media initiatives for Finders Keepers Vintage & Vinyl might encounter several challenges based on the insights provided in the lecture:

Technology-centric Approach: If Finders Keepers Vintage & Vinyl focuses solely on the technological aspect of social media, they might overlook the importance of aligning their efforts with a purpose that resonates with their audience. Implementing the latest tools without a clear purpose might lead to ineffective strategies and wastage of resources.

Lack of Understanding of Mass Collaboration Principles: Without a solid grasp of the fundamental principles of mass collaboration, the organization might struggle to harness the collective behaviors and potential of their online community. Understanding how to facilitate engagement, encourage contributions, and leverage the collective intelligence of the audience is crucial for success.

Executive and Managerial Confidence: Executives and managers might face challenges in assigning compelling purposes to the online community. There could be a hesitation to relinquish control and allow the community to organically fulfill its purposes. The lack of confidence in empowering the community might hinder the effectiveness of the social media initiatives.

Identifying Suitable Challenges for Collaboration: Not all challenges are well-suited for mass collaboration. Finders Keepers Vintage & Vinyl might face difficulty in determining which aspects of their business can benefit from community input and which are better handled through traditional methods. Identifying the right problems to crowdsource solutions could be a challenge.

Adaptation and Flexibility: Adapting to changes and being flexible in strategies based on community feedback might be challenging. Sometimes, businesses struggle to pivot their strategies based on community responses, leading to rigidity in their approaches.

To mitigate these challenges, it's crucial for Finders Keepers Vintage & Vinyl to:

Develop a clear purpose for their social media initiatives aligned with their brand values and audience interests.

Educate their team about the principles of mass collaboration and empower them to foster community engagement.

Encourage experimentation and learning from failures, allowing the community to drive solutions.

Regularly assess the suitability of challenges for mass collaboration and pivot strategies accordingly.

Maintain a feedback loop and be responsive to community inputs to adapt and improve their social media initiatives continuously.

By addressing these challenges proactively and aligning their strategies with the principles discussed in the lecture, Finders Keepers Vintage & Vinyl can enhance the success of their social media implementation efforts.

Happy Holidays to all!

Brianna W. :)

[briannamwood]

Week 7: Effective Content Development & Sharing

Hi everyone! Creating effective content and sharing it strategically is crucial for a brand's success in the digital landscape. Let's delve into the principles learned from Hootsuite/Podium modules 3 and 4 to understand how content development and sharing tie into becoming a social organization.

Effective Content Development and Sharing:

Inclusivity and Accessibility on Social Media: To develop effective content, it's vital to ensure inclusivity and accessibility. This involves creating content that resonates with diverse audiences, acknowledging different cultures, backgrounds, and abilities. For instance, adding alt text to images, using closed captions in videos, and creating content in multiple languages fosters inclusivity.

Building a Social Media Community: Effective content development goes hand in hand with building a vibrant community. It involves crafting content that encourages engagement, sparking conversations, and offering value to your audience. This could be achieved through asking questions, responding to comments, sharing user-generated content, or contributing to trending topics.

Example 1: Inclusivity in Content Development: Posting content that includes diverse representation, such as showcasing diverse individuals using your products or celebrating cultural events, exemplifies inclusivity. For instance, Nike's "You Can't Stop Us" campaign, which featured diverse athletes, celebrated unity and diversity.

Example 2: Building a Community through Engagement: Wendy's Twitter account engages its audience humorously and responsively, fostering a sense of community. Their witty responses to user comments and engaging in trending topics showcase their active involvement.

The Connection to Becoming a Social Organization:

Becoming a social organization involves integrating social media strategies into the core of an organization's operations. Effective content development and sharing align with this by:

Building Relationships: Creating content that resonates with diverse audiences and fosters engagement helps build stronger relationships within the community.

Enhancing Brand Perception: By being inclusive and engaging, a brand showcases its values and commitment to social interaction, improving its image.

Encouraging Collaboration: Effective content sparks conversations, encourages user-generated content, and promotes collaboration within the community, essential elements of a social organization.

In essence, effective content development and sharing are important parts of transforming into a social organization. It's about more than just broadcasting messages; it's about creating meaningful connections, fostering inclusivity, and nurturing a thriving community that actively engages with the brand's content.

Best wishes,

Brianna W.

[briannamwood]

Week 6: Building Effective Online Communities

In today's digital landscape, establishing and nurturing online communities is a critical aspect of brand engagement and success. From the principles outlined in the Social Organization's chapters 4 and 5 to the insights gained from the Hootsuite/Podium module 4 on online community building and influencer marketing, I will delve into effective strategies and their application to Finders Keepers Vintage & Vinyl's with my client project.

Principles from Social Organization's Chapters 4 and 5:

Authentic Engagement: Genuine interaction is fundamental to community building. Responding promptly, addressing concerns, and actively participating in discussions help foster a sense of community. For instance, engaging with user comments, initiating conversations, and sharing user-generated content on social media platforms like Instagram can create a more vibrant community around Finders Keepers.

Consistency and Transparency: Regular and transparent communication builds trust. For Finders Keepers, maintaining a consistent posting schedule and being transparent about their products' authenticity, history, and uniqueness can cultivate a loyal community.

Value Addition: Providing value through informative content, promotions, or exclusive offers keeps the community engaged. Sharing stories behind vintage items, offering tips on vinyl maintenance, or hosting virtual events discussing music history can add significant value to the community.

Insights from Hootsuite/Podium Module 4:

Identifying Influencers: Understanding different types of influencers (celebrities, micro-influencers, industry experts) and leveraging their reach can amplify brand visibility. For Finders Keepers, collaborating with local vintage enthusiasts or music aficionados who resonate with their niche audience could be impactful.

Measuring Success: Tracking metrics such as engagement rates, click-throughs, and conversions helps evaluate the effectiveness of influencer campaigns. Applying these metrics to assess the impact of collaborations with influencers for Finders Keepers would be crucial.

Application to Finders Keepers Vintage & Vinyl:

For Finders Keepers, implementing these principles means engaging authentically with their audience by sharing compelling stories about vintage finds or vinyl records' histories. They could collaborate with micro-influencers passionate about music and retro culture to reach a targeted audience. Additionally, tracking engagement metrics from influencer collaborations would gauge their effectiveness in growing the community.

By applying these strategies, Finders Keepers can enhance its online presence, establish a dedicated community of vintage and music enthusiasts, and drive brand loyalty and sales.

Until next time,

Brianna W. :)

[briannamwood]

Week 5: Influence of Internet Business Models

Welcome back readers!

"The Internet's Original Sin" by Ethan Zuckerman and Maciej Ceglowski's thought-provoking talk shed light on the often-overlooked aspect of internet business models and their profound impact on surveillance and data gathering. These discussions serve as crucial wake-up calls, prompting us to ponder the internet's evolution from its inception and the alarming implications of its current trajectory.

Both Zuckerman and Ceglowski emphasize a critical point: the internet's underlying business models fundamentally influence how data is collected, used, and monetized. The prevailing model, primarily fueled by advertising revenue, has inadvertently nurtured a culture of pervasive surveillance.

In the quest for profitability, internet giants have resorted to sophisticated data collection mechanisms. They track users' online activities, preferences, and behaviors relentlessly. This surveillance isn't solely for nefarious purposes; rather, it's an inherent aspect of the business model designed to customize advertising and enhance user experiences.

However, this model's inherent flaw lies in its erosion of privacy and the ethical dilemmas it poses. Users unknowingly sacrifice their privacy in exchange for free services or content. Every click, search query, or interaction becomes fodder for data collection, creating comprehensive user profiles that can predict and influence behavior.

Zuckerman's portrayal of the internet's original sin encapsulates the unforeseen consequences of the advertising-centric business model. Websites and platforms are incentivized to prioritize engagement and click-through rates, fostering an environment where sensationalism and polarizing content thrive. This has led to the proliferation of echo chambers and misinformation, impacting society's fabric.

Ceglowski's talk further explains this issue by highlighting the dangers of 'surveillance capitalism.' He stresses how this model commodifies personal data, undermining user autonomy and steering the internet towards a surveillance-driven ecosystem.

Both perspectives underscore the urgency of reevaluating our relationship with the internet. Striking a balance between profitability and user privacy is imperative. Businesses should prioritize ethical data practices, ensuring transparency, user consent, and robust privacy protection mechanisms.

Happy Thanksgiving!!

Brianna W.

[briannamwood]

Week 4: Insights from the Oxford Internet Institute

The Oxford Internet Institute recently shed light on the three primary reasons behind the rapid dissemination of junk news across social media platforms: algorithms, advertising, and exposure. In this blog post, I will delve into each of these reasons and discuss their implications, along with strategies to navigate these challenges.

1. Algorithms

Algorithms play a significant role in shaping our online experiences. Social media platforms utilize complex algorithms that curate our feeds based on our past behavior and preferences. While these algorithms aim to keep users engaged, they can unintentionally promote junk news by prioritizing sensational or polarizing content.

For example, I mostly follow fashion influencers, models, and creative content producers on social media. Often I will get "suggested" accounts to follow and most of the time it will be content that I do not want to see.

What to Be Aware Of:

Algorithms tend to prioritize clickbait or emotionally charged content.

Echo chambers can form as algorithms reinforce existing beliefs.

How to Respond:

Diversify your social media following to expose yourself to a broader range of perspectives.

Be mindful of content that promotes strong emotions and fact-check before sharing anything.

2. Advertising

Online advertising has transformed the business models of many social media platforms. While advertising revenue is essential for these platforms to operate, it can inadvertently stimulate the spread of junk news.

On Instagram, I get ads saying that if I download "BingoCash" or similar apps, I will get paid. I download just for the fun of it, and it is false information. Those apps companies are actually the ones getting paid by people downloading the app rather than paying the people who use the app.

What to Be Aware Of:

Click-driven revenue models encourage sensational headlines.

Advertising may be placed on websites that promote junk news.

How to Respond:

Support platforms that prioritize content quality over quantity.

3. Exposure

The more a piece of content is shared, the more it is exposed to different users, potentially reaching a vast audience. Unfortunately, this exposure also means junk news can rapidly gain traction.

What to Be Aware Of:

Viral content often relies on emotional appeal.

Misinformation can spread rapidly due to the exposure effect.

How to Respond:

Encourage sharing responsible content and educating others to do the same.

Conclusion: By diversifying online interactions, promoting responsible content sharing, and supporting platforms that prioritize content integrity, we can contribute to a more informed and reliable digital landscape. Together, we can combat the spread of junk news and promote a healthier online environment for everyone.

Best wishes,

Brianna W. :)

[briannamwood]

Week 4: Qualities of a Social Media Consultant

Hello creative readers!

In today's digital age, the role of a social media consultant has become increasingly vital for businesses and individuals seeking to establish a robust online presence. In this blog post, I will explore the key attributes that make a successful social media consultant and delve into strategies that I use or would use to enhance my own professional social media presence.

My Top Five Qualities For A Social Media Consultant:

Digital Savviness: A social media consultant must be well-versed in various social media platforms, trends, and emerging technologies. Staying updated is crucial for providing clients with innovative strategies.

Adaptability: Consultants need to adapt to algorithm changes, new features, and shifting user behaviors to keep their clients ahead.

Creativity: Creativity is essential to crafting engaging content, captivating visuals, and compelling narratives. It's what sets a brand apart from the noise on social media.

Communication Skills: Clear and effective communication is vital for conveying strategies and results to clients.

Content Creation: Being able to create a variety of content types, from written articles to videos and infographics, adds a valuable skillset to any consultant's assortment.

Crisis Management: Here's on more for good measure lol! Dealing with negative feedback or crises is part of the job. An excellent consultant remains calm under pressure and handles issues professionally.

Strategies for Enhancing Professional Social Media Presence

If I was a social media consultant myself here are some of the steps I would take to elevate my online presence:

Self-Assessment: Begin with a comprehensive self-assessment. Analyze my current online presence across various platforms.

Engagement: Actively engage with my audience by responding to comments, asking questions, and creating meaningful posts.

Networking: Connect with like-minded professionals, join industry groups, and participate in discussions to expand my network.

Consistency: Maintain a regular posting schedule to keep the audience engaged.

Analytics: Regularly review the performance of my posts. Use this to figure out what strategy works best for my audience.

Stay Updated: The digital landscape is always changing! Continuously educating myself on the latest trends and platforms.

Building a strong professional social media presence is an ongoing journey and there is always room for improvement. These strategies can be the key to being a successful social media consultant.

Best wishes,

Brianna W. :)

[briannamwood]

Week 3: Social Media, Privacy, & Internet Business Model

Welcome back readers!

In our increasingly digitalized world, the impact of big data and algorithms cannot be overstated. The rapid growth of technology has transformed the way we live, work, and connect with others. After watching the lecture and the Netflix documentary "The Social Dilemma," it's important to reflect on the immense power exerted by these tools and the potential dangers they pose. In this blog post, I will explore the reasons why big data and algorithms are powerful and delve into the associated risks. Additionally, I will discuss strategies to address these issues on personal, professional, and societal levels.

The Power of Big Data and Algorithms

Big data and algorithms have become formidable tools due to their capacity to process and analyze vast amounts of information efficiently. Their strength lies in their ability to identify patterns, make predictions, and optimize outcomes. Here's why they are so powerful:

Data-Driven Decision Making: Businesses, governments, and organizations use big data and algorithms to make informed decisions. These tools can analyze consumer behavior, market trends, and even predict disease outbreaks, leading to more effective planning and resource allocation.

Personalization: Algorithms are responsible for the highly tailored content and advertisements you encounter online. They analyze your preferences and behaviors, aiming to enhance user experience and increase engagement.

Efficiency and Automation: Automation, driven by algorithms, has improved productivity in various sectors. This includes self-driving cars, recommendation engines, and smart manufacturing.

Scale and Speed: Big data and algorithms can process information at an unprecedented scale and speed, offering insights and solutions in real-time.

The Dangers of Their Use and Abuse

Privacy Invasion: The collection of vast amounts of personal data raises concerns about privacy. The documentary "The Social Dilemma" shed light on how user data is harvested and monetized by social media platforms, potentially undermining individuals' privacy.

Filter Bubbles and Echo Chambers: Algorithms that prioritize personalized content can trap individuals in filter bubbles, reinforcing their existing beliefs and limiting exposure to diverse perspectives.

Manipulation and Misinformation: Big data and algorithms can be weaponized to spread misinformation and propaganda.

Bias and Discrimination: Algorithms can perpetuate and even exacerbate societal biases, leading to discrimination in various aspects.

Addiction and Mental Health Concerns: The addictive nature of social media platforms, driven by algorithmic recommendations, has raised concerns about their impact on mental health and well-being.

Addressing the Issues

1. Personal Level:

Educate yourself about data privacy and digital literacy to protect your personal information.

Limit your screen time and be mindful of your online consumption.

Diversify your information sources to break free from filter bubbles.

2. Professional Level:

Emphasize ethical AI and data use in the workplace. Develop guidelines and policies that promote fairness, transparency, and accountability.

Invest in employee training to ensure awareness and responsible use of data and algorithms.

3. Societal Level:

Advocate for stricter regulations and policies governing data collection and algorithm use.

Hold tech companies accountable for ethical practices and demand transparency in their algorithms.

Promote digital literacy in schools and communities to empower individuals to navigate the digital landscape effectively.

In conclusion, big data and algorithms are undoubtedly powerful tools with the potential to revolutionize industries and improve our lives. However, they also pose significant dangers when misused or abused. To strike a balance, we must address these challenges on personal, professional, and societal levels to ensure that the digital age benefits all of humanity without violating fundamental rights and values. It's a journey that requires collective efforts and continuous observation.

Until next time,

Brianna W.

[briannamwood]

Week 2: Unplugging for a Day, Social Media Experiment

Welcome back readers! I decided to conduct an experiment, breaking away from my usual social media routine and tracking the effects on my daily life. This blog post outlines my experience, challenges, and the insights I gained during this experiment. I chose to create a span of social-media-free time for one entire day. This meant no scrolling through my phone first thing in the morning.

Day of the Experiment 10/31-11/1: I woke up with a strange mix of anticipation and apprehension. The first challenge was not grabbing my phone the moment I opened my eyes, as my previous log had shown. I resisted the urge and left my phone on the bedside table. Instead, I focused on starting my day with a reading a book, doing a quick workout, and hopping in the shower. Usually at work, I keep my phone next to me all day but I decided to keep it in my purse while at work and triggering 'Do Not Disturb'.

Throughout the day, I observed several changes in my behavior:

Increased Productivity: With the absence of the usual time-sinks, I found myself more focused on tasks and efficient in completing work-related assignments. (Not checking my phone periodically throughout the day)

Reduced Notifications: The constant barrage of notifications that I'd become accustomed to significantly decreased. Without messages, emails, or social media updates demanding my immediate attention, I had a sense of tranquility and could focus on my work tasks.

Awareness of Habits: The experiment made me more conscious of my digital habits, such as reaching for my phone when I had a spare moment.

Challenges Faced: It wasn't all smooth sailing. There were moments of temptation to check my phone, especially during idle times. I kept wondering what text messages I was getting from my friends and what emails were coming through that I need to respond to. Overall, this experiment was an eye-opener. It highlighted the extent to which social media had embedded itself in my daily life and the impact it had on my attention span, productivity, and interactions. While social media undoubtedly has its advantages, it's crucial to find a balance between real life and social media life. Going forward, I plan to integrate some of the positive changes I experienced during this experiment into my daily routine. I'll allocate specific times for social media and ensure that it doesn't encroach on quality time with loved ones or hinder my productivity. The day without social media served as a valuable reminder that life exists beyond the screens, and it's important to savor every moment without the distraction of digital notifications.

It's time to stop & smell the 🌹

Brianna W. :)

[briannamwood]

Week 2: Social Media & Social Relationships

Welcome back readers! Today I will be discussing my thoughts on social media and social relationships found in Max Stossel's video and Emma Rathbone's article.

I thought Max Stossel's video "We've Been Sneaking Into Your Brains" was a thought-provoking exploration of the pervasive influence of social media and technology in our lives. It raised important questions about the impact of these platforms on our daily existence. First and foremost, I agree with Stossel's assertion that social media has a significant influence on our daily lives. It's more than just a communication tool; it has become a constant presence that shapes our thoughts, behaviors, and even our self-worth. It has the power to create a constant feeling of being 'plugged in,' which can be both beneficial and detrimental. There have been instances in my life when I deliberately disconnected from the Internet for an extended period, such as during vacations or simply just a meditation break. It's during these times that I've realized just how much I rely on technology. Initially, there's a sense of unease and FOMO, but as I adapt to the offline environment, I experience a profound sense of liberation. I become more present, engage in deeper conversations, and reconnect with the world around me. To be more intentional about my use of technology, I've tried a few strategies. First, I've set boundaries for device usage, designating specific times for checking social media and email. I've also tried to curate my digital environment, unfollowing accounts that don't add value and seeking out content that inspires, educates, or entertains in a meaningful way. Additionally, I've incorporated reading a book in the morning instead of scrolling through social media or giving my friends and family my full attention when I am with them.

Moving on to Emma Rathbone's article, "Before The Internet," which presents a nostalgic look at life before the internet and the ways it has profoundly changed the fabric of our existence. Social media has an undeniable influence on my daily life. It's a tool for staying connected with my friends and family, accessing information, and expressing ideas, but it also poses challenges. On one hand, it enhances my ability to engage with a global community, share experiences, and keep up with news and trends. On the other hand, it can be a source of distraction, comparison, and stress. The need to be 'plugged in' to stay updated can sometimes hinder my focus and mindfulness. I decided to deactivate my Instagram about three months ago and for over 2 years I deleted my Snapchat and TikTok accounts. I currently only use Pinterest, Facebook (stay and touch with family), and this Tumblr account. It was becoming a more and more negative aspect in my life and my mind feels free and clear when I read a book or journal instead.

To wrap up this blog for you, while these technologies offer numerous benefits, it's essential to be mindful of their influence and to establish boundaries that maintain a healthy balance between our digital and physical worlds!

Connect & Inspire,

Brianna W.

[briannamwood]

Week 1: My Journey in Fashion & Creativity

Hello, lovely readers! My name is Brianna Wood, and I'm ecstatic to welcome you to my Tumblr blog. I'd like to take this opportunity to share a bit about myself, my aspirations, and what you can expect from this blog. I'm currently a junior at CMU online, majoring in Fashion Merchandising and Visual Design, with a minor in Entrepreneurship. While my days are filled with spreadsheets and numbers as a full-time accountant at Westborn Market in Redford, Michigan, my heart truly belongs to the world of fashion, music, and poetry. I draw inspiration from iconic artists like Lana Del Rey and Jim Morrison, whose creativity and individuality have left an indelible mark on my own journey. My ultimate career goal is to become a fashion stylist or buyer and, one day, open my very own boutique. I envision a space where I can curate unique collections that reflect my personal style and connect with individuals who appreciate the artistry of fashion. My blog is a platform to document my progress, share my insights, and hopefully inspire others who share my passion for the industry. On this blog, you can look forward to style inspiration, creative expressions, and, of course, personal anecdotes. Now, let's shift our focus to a company that I believe excels in their use of social media, particularly in line with the principles I've encountered in my studies. Chanel is an exemplary company when it comes to their use of social media, and they excel in several key principles that align with the modern fashion industry and the digital age. (Click on the link to see their Instagram page.) Chanel has mastered the art of storytelling. They maintain a consistent brand image across their social media platforms, which includes elegant and timeless imagery that reflects the essence of the brand. Whether it's showcasing their latest fashion collections, beauty products, or behind-the-scenes glimpses, Chanel's content always tells a story of luxury, sophistication, and creativity. Chanel actively engages with its audience. They respond to comments, messages, and questions, fostering a sense of community and dialogue. Their dedication to engaging with followers makes customers feel valued and heard, which is crucial for brand loyalty. Chanel's social media profiles are a visual treat. They invest in high-quality photography and design to create an aesthetically pleasing and cohesive feed. The consistent use of their signature black-and-white color scheme and iconic branding elements, like the interlocking "C"s, ensures that their content is instantly recognizable. Chanel often collaborates with influential figures, celebrities, and influencers. These partnerships not only expand their reach but also enhance their credibility and relevance in the fashion industry. By associating with these figures, they tap into new audiences and strengthen their brand image. Chanel utilizes social media to create a sense of exclusivity and scarcity. They often tease upcoming collections or events, creating anticipation and excitement among their followers. This strategy can lead to increased demand and engagement. Chanel has successfully built a community around their brand. They encourage user-generated content and hashtags, inviting customers to share their experiences with Chanel products. This not only boosts brand loyalty but also provides valuable social proof. While maintaining a classic and timeless image, Chanel also keeps up with social media trends. They use features like Instagram Stories, IGTV, and live streams to engage with their audience in real-time, ensuring they remain relevant and accessible to a younger, tech-savvy audience. This serves as a valuable example for aspiring fashion professionals like myself, showing how to adapt to the digital age while staying true to the essence of the brand. Stay inspired, Brianna Wood