Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube, Instagram

Are they all too much?  
Are you just "too old" because you think so?  
Do they help you stay connected?  
Do they allow businesses to have a more intimate reach? 
Can they be a waste of time?

YES! To all of the above.

I say yes, here's why:

I don't want to be one of those people that flat out says social media is too much.  I say that as you are reading a blog post that is simultaneously being posted on our website, Facebook and Twitter for maximum exposure.  I am however saying, we over do it.  I'll be the first to admit that because of my personal exposure to the  insane number of sites available, my memory has a tough time recalling what I remember because I saw it on one of these sites or if I actually experienced it in person.   

I was recently with some friends, they have a child.  I had not seen this child in nearly 8 months, but because of social media, I was well versed in what had been going on.  I knew everything from when that kid had his last flu to how many times he recently went to the potty by himself.  Because of the all the pictures and videos, I honestly felt as if I had been a part of that kid's life the whole time.  Reality sets in, I haven't.  The kid doesn't recognize me at all and his parents are secretly disappointed I had not been by to see the family.  

How did this all happen?  Have we come so dependent on checking social media every 30 seconds that we actually forgot how to be social in person?  Have friendships suffered?  I admit that social media has its place.  Its a fantastic way to for friends or family who do not live near by to stay "involved" with your life.  I used quotation marks to make a point, because does that word really fit?  I take it back, they aren't involved in the true sense of the word, I'll go with updated, instead.  People can stay updated with your lives.  Everything from a cute dog being walked by a small child, an Instagram filtered picture of a rusty sign or a triple cheeseburger with your name on it, allows for others to see what it is your are doing and make that person feel like the most important thing on earth.  Sharing a concert you are going to, updating friends from abroad and posting silly pictures of friends is fantastic use of this technology. 

So now where do businesses fit into this?  Learning about a small business, such as Track Seven Events, a local bar or book store - perfect use :)  But does a company like Pepsi actually need a Facebook page?  Im sure most would say, need?  No. Beneficial, yes.   Having client interaction is what it's all about.  While Pepsi doesn't need to advertise on social media, they have more to lose buy not reaching out for that interaction.  You create an experience on social media and people feel connected, feel some sort of ownership, responsibility and loyalty to the brand.  Big or small company, people have to actively choose to follow, like, subscribe, pin, etc.    Once someone has committed to one of these, they are now your captive audience., boom.  Keep your material fresh and stay off your high horse, that's the best advice I can offer.  

To tie this rant together - Social media used properly - A++.  Social media overused.... You'll end up lonely in your bedroom with your newest blackberry that doesn't connect to your older Ipad, drinking a Pepsi while you obsessively look at your old high school friend's Instagram feed of them playing outside.