SOCIAL MEDIA - USE WITH CAUTION

Social media platforms have revolutionised the way society thinks and communicates. Messages and news stories spread in seconds giving a voice to everyone who has access to a computer or smart phone. It has made communication a two-way dialogue and brands can no longer impersonally broadcast messages, what is required on social media is interaction and engagement. Social media platforms have been used to hold advertisers, the media and corporates accountable and even in some instances helped to unseat governments and remove dictators. 

Of course social media has pitfalls. Brands who have been "roasted" on social media can often suffer permanent and lasting damage if swift and corrective steps are not implemented timeously. Also think of how bullying of children can become magnified through the use of these platforms. Bullying has always been a problem but with social media and online technology, cyberbullying is often not limited to the immediate school environment and can stretch nationally and even internationally. There are too many cases of children committing suicide and suffering from severe depression because of cyberbullying. There are ways to help children that are being bullied. Many organisations and groups are available to give guidance and assistance. Some of these include: Childline South Africa and South African Depression and Anxiety Group.

The strength and powerful influence of social media platforms and online technology firms is all too evident when examining companies like Facebook and the parent company of Google, Alphabet Inc. Not only are the dollars rolling in and shares soaring but the social and political power wheeled by these companies is enormous. 

The lockdown throughout the world caused by COVID-19 has seen people turn to technology more than ever before. Zoom meetings quickly became the norm and the legitimacy of businesses that do not have a presence on social media is often questioned.

As always Ikonic is staying ahead of the game. The Ikonic website is regularly updated with news and new property listings. Ikonic is on Facebook and Instagram.  "Like" and "follow" Ikonic on social media to stay updated and informed. Ikonic is a forerunner in the real estate business and has a growing following on social media particularly on Facebook.

 Looking forward to engaging and interacting on social media.