A Beginner’s Guide to Social Media

Even though social media is one of the most popular ways for people, companies, and organizations to connect in today’s world, for many people it’s still hard to know how to get started. Although it can be intimidating, it’s worth your time to learn the basics so that you can be more successful in the professional world.
Here is a basic overview to help you out. While this article provides an overview for each social media channel—from Facebook to Twitter and beyond—it’s important to realize that many social media channels connect to each other. Images posted on Instagram are also frequently shared on Facebook and Twitter as well. And links to personal blogs are often listed on profiles for other social media channels. To learn more about each social media channel, expand the sections below.
With so many social opportunities online, it can be a little overwhelming. Be sure to start small—don't try to tackle every channel at once. Pick one where you have friends and colleagues to connect with or one that is particularly important for your career, and use that social channel for a few weeks or months before starting another. As you’re getting started, you might even consider talking with a peer about how he or she uses social media. Through all of your online interactions, remember that social media should reflect who you are, so be yourself.
For more articles about networking through social media, check out:
How to Network Through Social Media