What Type Of Social Media User Are You?

Tuesday, February 9, 2010

Subtitle:  What side of the fence are you on?

When it comes to social media, are you on the outside looking in or on the inside looking out?

This is the question I ask myself when I encounter someone involved in social media.  It gives me insight to their level of engagement, which is important to me toward my own expectations.

Insiders

If you’re one who uses social media to interact with friends and family, then your consider an insider.  This means that you’re using social media in it’s purest form without any interest toward professional interests.

There are some professionals however, who wants to further the cause of social media and has significant value to add – both professionally and personally.  I consider these insiders as well, as they further push the boundaries of social media by defining it, identifying new trends and adding content.

Outsiders

If you’re on the outside looking in you are looking to harness the popularity of social media for a professional means and not necessarily adding to the inherent value of social media.

This group includes marketers/advertisers, companies and brands, as well as sites looking to tap into social media to benefit their own agenda.

Value

Ultimate value lie with Insiders, for without them Outsiders would have no one to target, nothing to reap. For instance, I recall talking with a prestigious industry publication that said it would be of great interest to feature what Hispanics are doing in social media from the user’s perspective.  Once I told them about the outsiders involved the article lost it’s luster.

As I’ve stated above, this categorization of what people do online acts as a measuring stick to help guide what you may talk about with them, or to what extent you want to include them in a project or task…or not.

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  • http://josehuitron.posterous.com Jose Huitron

    Great post my friend! Adding value is an important component. Some people forget that it isn’t just about joining the party or peeking inside but rather you get the most when you contribute value added material which in the end helps big a bigger and more productive fiesta!

  • http://louispagan.com Louis Pagan

    Thanks for commenting…I think it’s important to continually add content and relevance.

  • http://Dallasvida.com Synbad

    Good Insight although you need to speak more on those who walk the line between “insider” & “outsider” in more detail because that is where I believe the true heart of social media lies.

  • http://louispagan.com Louis Pagan

    @Synbad
    I think I may know who you are referring to and I believe I’ve identified them as “Insiders” (see 2nd paragraph in Insiders section).

    Is this the group that you mean? What are your thoughts on that?

  • http://www.admentis.com Miguel

    Louis – Appreciate your thoughts on this topic. Having just finished reading “Trust Agents” I find myself thinking about Chris Brogans ideas and concepts about social media (making your own game, one of us, agent zero, building an army, etc). Given the short time I’ve been involved in social media, I relate a lot to Chris’ book and the lessons it shares regarding building trust – listening before acting – and helping before being helped. I really find myself in that “mode” right now.

    Whether I fit an “inside or outside” category right now, I’m not sure. While I use some social media resources for family communication, I use others exclusively for work and/or professional activities. I’m sure I’ll eventually bring them both together – but for now – they each serve a purpose for my current social media development. Anyway, just some random thoughts after a long day! I appreciate the opportunity to contribute to the dialogue. ; )

  • http://louispagan.com Louis Pagan

    Miguel, thanks for sharing your thoughts…sounds like you are on very productive and positive path in social media.From your comments and tweets it looks like you have a handle on your approach – to your success! Saludos.

  • http://www.admentis.com Miguel

    Thanks Louis. Indeed, I’ve got a lot to learn, but I’m having a blast on the journey there! ; ) @Louis Pagan

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