Question

In your OWN words explain in detail the benefits and the risks of using an online social network.

Answer 1

Social networking has changed the way we communicate, do business, get our daily news fix and so much more.

Pros of Social Networking

1. Worldwide Connectivity

One of the most obvious pros of using social networks is the ability to instantly reach people from anywhere.

• Seeking a new job
• Locating assistance
• Getting and giving product and service referrals
• Receiving support from like-minded individuals
• Making or receiving career or personal advice
• Sharing political beliefs
• Accessing news in real time

Easy and instant communication. Now that we're connected wherever we go, we don't have to rely on our landlines, answering machines or snail mail to contact somebody.

2. Commonality of Interest

When you opt to participate in a social network community, you can pick and choose individuals whose likes and dislikes are similar to yours and build your network around those commonalities. It can also be a great way to share tips and ideas For instance, if you are a chess aficionado, a knitter, a book lover or have a particular political leaning, you can find and interact with those who share your interest.Sites like Pinterest have been very successful due to the ease in which a person can learn - and share - information about hobbies, crafts, cooking, gardening and other do-it-yourself activities. By pinning and sharing, you can attract like-minded individuals into your circle.

3. Real-time news and information discovery/Increased News Cycle Speed

Undoubtedly, social networking has revolutionized the speed of the news cycle. The days of waiting around for the six o'clock news to come on TV or for the delivery boy to bring the newspaper in the morning is over . If you want to know what's going on in the world, all you need to do is jump on social media.

Great opportunities for business owners. Business owners and other types of professional organizations can connect with current customers, sell their products and expand their reach using social media.

General fun and enjoyment. A lot of people turn to it when they catch a break at work or just want to relax at home

Professional Growth

There are many groups for people to discuss their interests and there has been a huge growth in chat rooms, forums and groups focused on professional growth. Today we can find a group that focuses on just about any profession or educational pursuit and seek out help from others around the globe. Freelancers in particular can find others to trade referral sources with, tips on how to handle difficult clients, and get feedback on portfolios and other professional topics. No matter where you live, you can reach out and find others who work in your profession and are eager to help you with your own business and career.

Cons of Social Networking

Information overwhelm. With so many people now on social media tweeting links and posting selfies and sharing YouTube videos, the same data is becoming overwhelm.

Privacy issues. With so much sharing going on, issues over privacy will always be a big concern

Social peer pressure and cyber bullying. For people struggling to fit in with their peers — especially teens and young adults — the pressure to do certain things or act a certain way can be even worse on social media than it is at school or any other offline setting.

Distraction and procrastination. People get distracted by all the social apps and news and messages they receive, leading to all sorts of problems like distracted driving or the lack of gaining someone's full attention during a conversation. Browsing social media can also feed procrastination habits and become something people turn to in order to avoid certain tasks or responsibilities.

Sedentary lifestyle habits and sleep disruption. Since social networking is all done on some sort of computer or mobile device, it can sometimes promote too much sitting down in one spot for too long. Likewise, staring into the artificial light from a computer or phone screen at night can negatively affect your ability to get a proper night's sleep.