If you work in an office with diverse age groups like me, you probably have noticed how the seasoned and conventional generation x’ers have adopted something from us, the un-professional and un-experienced, generation y’s:
Facebook. Twitter. LinkedIn. Even, YouTube.
Why now? Why just now are these platforms socially acceptable in the work place?
This is my theory. And because this is a blog, I can say whatever I like and let someone on the world-wide-web think of me as some social media genius, or an interactive moron, then post a thoughtful, yet relevant comment below. It’s a beautiful world.
But, to me, it seems that just recently generation x’ers are hoping on the social media bandwagon, signing up for these accounts and really engaging. For the first time, they are truly embracing these mediums and taking the time to comprehend the magnitude of their purpose and recognizing what they are truly designed for – communication.
I’m going to pick on Facebook. When it first launched, generation x’ers most likely eavesdropped on their children’s/nieces/nephews, etc. conversations regarding what so and so posted on their wall, the images following an all-night booze-a-thon at the frat house or the relationship status updates and from this intellectual information, they gathered that Facebook was ultimately, the devil. More so, that Facebook was going to corrupt their innocent children and be the death of sanity, as we know it.
From my perspective, it felt like generation x’ers didn’t bother trying to learn about this living entity. They would rather not – one of those out of sight, out of mind things. And it hasn’t been until now that they have taken the time to sit down, sign up and realize that Facebook is not just utilized for hooking up or sharing/posting regrettable photos from the previous night – that it’s actually much more than that. And most important, that YOU, the user, have control of the information that you want to populate.
You can see it now. Generation x’ers adding old college friends, colleagues and neighborhood buddies. They are beginning to piece together the lost years of the life and embracing what’s new. Whether you like it or not, this is the modern approach to connecting and keeping in touch. It’s fast, it’s easy and it’s 24/7.
So now, thank you to us, you don’t see any more dirty looks or gritting of the teeth around the office when a young-professional types in the evil, social media URL of their choice. Because now, these sites are accepted. Because now, both generations understand what these sites are and more important, what they are not.
Agreed bro. Gen X'ers I think actually became interconnected with Gen Y'ers in the sense that eventually we all grow up, get careers, and understand the viewpoint at hand.
ReplyDeleteI'm digging this... keep bloggin brother... you've got at least 2 readers!
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Danny - It is long over-due that you got yourself a blog, I am passing this on to Deb-babe and Goodspeed.
ReplyDeleteIt is interesting that your current post covers the Facebook topic because I am in the middle of launching the Social Media revolution at my company. I have been doing a massive amount of research and networking trying to figure out how to integrate social media with our main industry -agriculture. So, don't be surprised if I contact you for to help me find a solution to a problem and feel free to pick my brain. :)
In other news, we miss you in Iowa, moving to CO was probably the dumbest thing you've ever done. (JK)
OH!!! You should probably follow my blog: http://katiehommer.blogspot.com
ReplyDeleteGen X here: We need validation sometimes. Not that Gen Y can't provide it, but brands and major companies had to prove it. Symbols had to show up on the TV, we had to learn what the little blue bird was all about before we BELIEVED it was here to stay. #2. We didn't grow up with Internet, cells, digital cameras, texting, or heck, remote controls for the TV. Slower to process, doesn't mean we can't, but need buy-in first. Good job here, Danny! I of course continue to miss you at the office!
ReplyDeleteFor those of my commenters, Michelle is my favorite co-worker. She is a Gen X but has worked hard trying to understand this new phenomenon, and she has done a great job. Follower her on Twitter @harvestmoonads. MB, I think the best thing about your approach to SM is the fact that you don't disregard it and that you actually champion the fact that things are changing and if you want to continue in PR/communications, you better know this shit because this is how we're evolving.
ReplyDeleteKatie, feel free to holler at me. I surprisingly, know my shit when it comes to this marketing/social media. I can help. And feel free contact Michelle - @harvestmoonads for thoughts. She is a kick-ass PR/communications social mediaite.
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