Today we had the wonderful opportunity to hear Dr. Friedlander speak about the role of social media in public relations. He shared his blog http://assistivetek.blogspot.com while explaining the many ways technology can be used to brand and market a person, product or organization.
Of note was the discussion related to the use of Twitter to cross promote products and services. I find it curious that many of the college age students I speak with do not use or are interested in using Twitter. I can't help but wonder if Twitter has been overly hyped in the mainstream media. It appears as if only time will reveal the truth about the usefulness of Twitter. The tool appears to be most useful for fans or followers of particular content - sports, brands, topics, etc. Liberal arts colleges require students to develop interests across a broad range of topics. It maybe too overwhelming to "keep up" with what is happening across knowledge domains for students who are also involved with coursework.
Personally, I find it challenging to maintain extended interest in a consistent blitz of publicity for political candidate tweeters. Could it be I am just tired of the constant campaigning? My reasons for not regularly using Twitter are different than my students. This brings me to another series of questions - who (demographically) is using Twitter? Why do they use it? Why do they like it? I know and recognize the usefulness of the tool in PR, but I wonder who - besides those in PR - use it regularly.
Many thanks to Dr. Friedlander for sharing his passion for blogging and social media.
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