An Introduction To The Top 5 Social Media Networks By Number Of Active Users
Copyright (c) 2013 Samson Ogola
As one of the most popular internet terminologies, social media networks should be understood. Such an understanding is key to effective use of the said networks. In brief, any internet-based means of communication using various plugins, sites and apps is termed social. In fact, the promotion of dialogue between persons with similar interest is the aim of every online social medium. With such knowledge comes the desire to know the various categories of online social networks.
Categories of Social Media
Social Networks - join people with similar passions and allow them to create profiles. They also have features to enhance communication between friends or companies. Examples include Facebook, LinkedIn and Google+.
Social News Platforms - permit sharing of latest news through direct posts or links to external sources. The users in such sites then rate the news based on its credibility and usefulness. Examples include Reddit and Digg
Bookmarking Sites - allow users to save links to their favourite websites. The main examples include StumbleUpon, Delicious Micro-blogging Sites -- allow users to share updates in form of short messages. Mostly, the number of characters allowed in an update is about 140. Twitter is the main example in this category.
Media Sharing Sites -- provide effective platforms for sharing videos and photos. Users can also download, share, rate and leave comments on videos and photos. Examples include YouTube, Pinterest and Flickr.
Blogs and Forums -- allow users to share and give ideas on various topics ranging from home improvement to technology. The internet has blogs and forums about almost every topic you can think of.
The Big Five
Facebook is both the most popular social network as well as the highest ranked website in the world. The Network boasts of over 1 billion users and has over 8 million site linking according to latest Alexa rating. It is basically, a site for friends to share interesting things about their lives, chat and share media (e.g. videos, photos, and documents). The success of the platform is due to ease of joining and setting up of profiles. In addition, Facebook has several applications and easily integrates with major websites. That popularity, for instance, has seen most sites embrace Facebook Connect (a way of join other networks through Facebook). For ultimate experience on Facebook, carefully choose friends, post interesting updates and comment on your friends' status.
Google+
Though Google+ has not been in the market for years, it is one of the most popular social networks. In fact, it is currently the second most popular social site based on active users. Due to its status as Google's official social platform, it has been redesigned to accommodate more features. As a result, Google+ is easy to use and a gateway to all other Google products. For instance, you can easily access Maps, Gmail and Google Play right from your Google+ account. New users, however, need to learn about features like Hangouts, Sparks, Circles, and privacy settings to have the best experience within the network.
YouTube
As the leading video portal in the world, Google's YouTube has introduced additional social plugins. For instance, you can comment on a video as you watch it. Plugins for Google+, Twitter and Facebook are also available in the redesigned YouTube. In addition, the search bar has auto-complete features to aid your search for videos. Users are however, expected to meet specific age requirements to view videos with adult or violent contents. For maximum enjoyment, edit your channel, and upload interesting videos. You also need to leave comments on other videos to get a following.
Twitter is the most popular micro-blogging site and among the top 10 websites in the world. It is the simplest way of sharing breaking news with millions of people across the world. This explains why most journalist and celebrities prefer it. In addition, the number of characters allowed ensures the message is short and to the point. For effective use, however, you need to understand features like Hashtags, Lists, Tweets and Retweets. Also, ensure you only follow people with relevant tweets and always abide by twitters terms of use.
LinkedIn is simply the largest network of professionals. With over 200 million active users, this platform provides the most direct and transparent platform to hire or be hired. To fully benefit from the site, however, you need to upgrade from basic to a premium membership. The said upgrade gives more control on who connects with you and promotes your profile to prospective clients or employers.
About the Author
Samson Ogola is the founder and author at Toprated Tips Blog. As a blogging enthusiast, he has published more than 100 blog posts/tutorials just to share what he has learnt with the world. Visit our blog for informative tips and reviews. http://www.topratedtips.com
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