In the last decade social networks have sprung up across the internet attracting users and businesses alike. Their growth has been exponential with over a billion people now owning at least one account. However, all good things come to end so is now the time for the start of their decline?
Below are five reasons why I think social networks are here to stay.
1. Their user base keeps growing
Facebook, Google+ and Twitter are all still seeing growth in the size of their user base especially in developing nations in Asia and Africa. As long as this continues to be the case Social Media is going nowhere because users are what provides these companies with revenue
2. As long as they keep growing businesses will continue to pay for advertising etc
One of the main ways that Social Networks get revenue is through businesses and organisations paying for advertising and sponsorship. They will continue to fork out huge sums of money as long as people are still using the networks as much as they care currently.
3. They’re a convenient and fun way to keep in touch with friends and family
Although a letter in the post still has a nostalgic value in the modern world, our society is heavily leaning towards virtually instant forms of communication like mobile phones and the internet. Social networks have taken advantage of people’s desire to communicate and given it an entertaining edge; they keep adding more and more features which are improving or building on their original purpose.
4. Still seen as trendy and cool
Everyone has Facebook, in fact it is now common parlance to declare that you are going to ‘Facebook’ someone, if you’re under a certain age and don’t have Facebook you’re seen as out of touch.
5. Instant updates on things going on around the world
This is the age of information saturation and instant news. A news story happening thousands of miles away can appear on your screen in a matter of seconds. This effect is multiplied by social media you can find out instant up to date news just by browsing your Facebook or twitter feed. People don’t want to be out of the loop so expect people to continue using social media even if it is just to keep up with what’s going on in the world.
So there you have it,the five reasons why I think that social media is here to stay! Let me know what you think in the comment section below.
Josh Hansen works for Electric Dialogue, a London based SEO agency; and he writes for C.S Bedford a family run jewellers in North West London.
