People utilize social media for all sorts of reasons. Whether it’s generating buzz for your business or building a following for your weekend garage band, social media can be beneficial both professionally and socially. The immense impact of social media on today’s society is undeniable and continues to change communication, engagement, and mindsharing in our lives. The force of social media has grown so much that it has inspired an entire week-long, worldwide “unconference” called Social Media Week. From February 13th-February 17th, 2012, Social Media Week will present opportunities for social media experts and novices alike to discuss the use of online social platforms to gain strategic advantage and brand value in their personal, social, and professional lives. This year’s theme is Empowering Change Through Collaboration.
“Reflecting the global impact of social media – and its role as a catalyst in driving cultural, economic, political and social change in developed and emerging markets – Social Media Week is one of the world’s most unique global platforms…”
Inspired by the inclusive nature of social media, Social Media Week was started in 2009 to offer a gathering that was more open and collaborative than the average conference. It has continued as a biannual event and has seen 60,000 physical participants along with half a million visitors on web and mobile platforms. Next month, Social Media Week will have a presence in Hamburg, Hong Kong, London, Miami, New York, Paris, Sao Paolo, Singapore, Tokyo, Toronto, Washington, D.C. and as you might have guessed- online. For those of us who fall into the social media-impaired category, we can finally learn the meaning of all those colorful little icons that sit in the corners of websites. For social media-savvy types, this event is a prime opportunity to connect with other professionals, and learn firsthand from the experts about the latest trends in the industry.
Thanks to this year’s headlining sponsor, Nokia, all events hosted directly by Social Media Week are free to attend. Registration begins today, January 17th, so reserve your place at an event near you or for one of the many online offerings. For more information on the guest speakers and events, check out the Social Media Week website…or their blog, or on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Google+, Youtube…
