The use of mobile and web-based technologies as a mode of communication and interaction has greatly increased. This is due to the advantages associated with the use the various platforms available for virtual interaction such as social media platforms as well as a business platform. This brings together people who have a common interest and may be miles away from each other. Social media and social networking are some of the most common terms in this kind of interaction, and has overtaken traditional marketing methods. Despite the fact that people take them as the same thing, the two have major differences.
So What is Social Media?
This is the use of web-based technology as an interactive means, usually with a broad audience. In this scenario, everyone has an opportunity to create, share, distribute and engage in content. Some of the social media platforms include Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Snapchat. Blogs, videos, podcasts, and newsletters are some of the content types popular among the platforms.
The use of social media has various advantages;
- It has multiple functions to suit a person’s needs
- There is a lot of buzz, which means that it is easy to go viral
- Published content can attract interaction
It, however, has some disadvantages;
- Since it is not interactive, little to no feedback may be received
- Lots of spam content
What is Social Networking?
This is the creation of both business and personal relationships and maintaining an interactive environment, with an aim of building a network. In social networking, profiles are built with personal details, and the content based on peoples interactions.
The use of social networking is advantageous in that;
- It is possible to get meaningful feedback
- Meaningful relationships are made
- The content received is in line with the interactions
It, however, has a few cons;
- It can take time to build meaningful relations and interactions
Similarities between Social Media and Networking
Both focus on online activity
Both depend on viral marketing to conveniently achieve set goals
Differences between Social Media and Social Networking
Definition of social media verses social networking
Social media is the use of web-based technology as an interactive means, usually with a broad audience. On the other hand, social networking is the creation of both business and personal relationships and maintaining an interactive environment, with an aim of building a network.
Target crowd for social media and social networking
While social media may not have a specific target crowd, social networking is very specific on the target crowd.
Goals of social media vs. social networking
While the goal of social media is to interact and generate buzz, the goal of social networking is to build a network and also nurture the relationships.
Communication style
While social media is basically a message delivering channel to users, social networking involves two-way communication, hence developing relationships.
Timely responses
Social media may not have timely responses as it is not fully interactive. On the other hand, social networking fosters timely responses as it involves direct communication among the parties involved.
Social Media vs. Social Networking: Comparison Table
Summary of Social Media vs. Social Networking
For both personal and business needs, human interaction cannot be ignored. Both social media and social networking come in handy in boosting the interaction among the audience. The choice of whether to use social media and social networking ultimately depends on the scope and also a person’s goals.