subject: The Power Of The Internet [print this page] The internet is an amazing thingThe internet is an amazing thing. It can be used to research all subjects, to correspond with friends and even to communicate with complete strangers. I'm not referring to chat rooms or dating sites. The social internet is basically a gigantic platform with which people can express their opinions, share ideas and post original thoughts in an interactive way.
The Harvard Business Review is one of my favourite online journals. They recently published a few articles surrounding the resignation of Apple's CEO, Steve Jobs. One article particularly touched me so I decided to comment on it via my Disqus profile. I was then notified when my comment received a few replies (including one from the article's author) as well as several 'Likes'. Wow! My little opinion generated quite a lot of response and from people I don't even know!
Similarly, I have a personal blog, which I write weekly. It's amazing to see who is coming on to my blog, commenting on my posts and passing it on to their friends. Who ever thought my words could be so inspirational? And it's not just my words, it's anyone who chooses to publish their own. The internet, and blogging and social platforms in particular, has given a public voice to all those who choose to have one. Moreover, that voice doesn't have to just go one way, it can start compelling dialogues all over the world.
The best part is that by creating profiles through a number of these platforms - social networking, commenting, blogging etc. all thoughts, ideas and interactions can be monitored, so people can really see how influential they are and more importantly, what type of people are interested in what they have to say.
They say the trick to being successful with any of these platforms is to be natural and communicative. Think about the way you interact in real life? Do people listen to you when all you're doing is talking about yourself or your company? Maybe, but if they are it is unlikely that they are overly compelled by what you have to say. What would compel them however, is if you were to ask them about their interests and then maybe bring yourself in. Talk about what you have in common or what you have to offer that will satisfy one of their needs. That's how you gain a person's attention. In that respect it's best when starting to build online social profiles, to think less about the results and more about creating real connections with people. Think about the ways you can really add value to the conversation, and then do it.
