What?!?
I understand what is said in the article (Un)Social Networking, but I cannot agree with it entirely. The article covers that people are basically losing interest in real conversation face-to-face and would rather turn to social network sites like Twitter and Facebook. Conversations are considered more shallow within the social streams.
As a person that writes for TwitterWatchdog.com, I have connected with quite a number of people. Some, I talk to via email, or they visit my site.
Some of the comments that I receive as well as the ones I give at other sites would be enough to write a blog entry alone. Some of my social networking conversations, especially on Facebook are lengthy and can go on for days.
So, here is what I am coming to as the point.
NO – Social networking does NOT break down real communication.
If you are finding yourself unsatisfied with shallow conversations in your social networking circle, then you have failed to know how it works, especially if you are also trying to attract visitors to your website to hopefully continue a conversation on your blog.
You need to find better conversationalists. You can also look up Tweetups in an area near you at TwtVite and meet these people that you have been talking to online.
I actually had a conversation with a guy at my local library while he was using Twitter. He expressed the same concern as Ian’s post that I linked to above. When I explained how he could enrich his social networking experience, his doubts were gone. He now actively meets some of tweeps from the area and hang out.
So, if you are looking to connect or influence others, you need to step out of the box and find people who might be interested in speaking more than a 140 characters.
What are your thoughts on this? Do you think social networking encourages less real conversations in person?
Your post was excellent and I liked reading it. I just happen to have a few disagreements with the arguments being presented but it makes some good points and I appreciate them.
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I think it all depends on the experience and what you want out of your experience. You control how you interact with people… not the social network site.
Hiya Nile! how have you been?? im good pregnant with my second child.. 😉 im glad to see u still have your site. so many have left them behind. well take care..
Congratulations on the great news! I have not heard from you in some time. I still have this one and many others. If you are on Facebook, add me. I am also still on Yahoo IM too 🙂