The Concept of Social Media

The concept of social media dates back to the 1970s, with the creation of internet forums. These were online spaces where people could discuss various topics and connect with each other.

The first recognizable form of social media as we know it today, however, was likely Six Degrees, which launched in 1997. This was a social networking site that allowed users to upload a profile and make connections with friends.

Other early social media platforms include LiveJournal (launched in 1999), Xanga (launched in 1999), and Blogger (launched in 1999).

The rise of social media really took off, however, with the launch of Myspace in 2003, followed by Facebook in 2004, and then Twitter in 2006. These platforms have since become some of the most popular social media sites, with millions of users around the world.

It is difficult to determine which is the "best" social media channel, as it ultimately depends on an individual's specific needs and preferences. Some popular social media channels in 2022 include:

Facebook: With over 2.7 billion monthly active users, Facebook is the largest social networking site. It is a platform where users can connect with friends and family, share updates and photos, and join groups and pages centered around their interests.

Instagram: This platform, which is owned by Facebook, is primarily focused on visual content such as photos and videos. It is popular among users who enjoy sharing their personal lives and creative content with their followers.

Twitter: This microblogging site allows users to share short messages (called "tweets") and interact with others through the use of hashtags. It is a popular platform for celebrities, politicians, and businesses to share updates and engage with their followers.

TikTok: This short-form video app has gained popularity in recent years, particularly among younger users. It allows users to create and share short videos set to music, and has become a platform for creativity and self-expression.

LinkedIn: This professional networking site is designed for job seekers and business professionals. Users can connect with others in their industry, search for jobs, and share content related to their professional interests.

Ultimately, the best social media channel for an individual will depend on their specific needs and interests. It is a good idea to consider which platforms align with your goals and values, and to use them in a way that is authentic and positive.

Blogging and the Blog Post Length

There is no hard and fast rule for the ideal length of a blog post, as it can depend on the topic and purpose of the post, as well as the preferences of the audience. That being said, there are a few general guidelines to consider when determining the length of your blog post:

Consider the purpose of the post: If you are writing a tutorial or how-to post, it may be necessary to include more detailed instructions and examples, which could result in a longer post. On the other hand, if you are sharing a quick update or opinion piece, a shorter post may be more appropriate.

Think about your audience: Consider the attention span and reading habits of your target audience. If you are writing for a general audience, it may be best to keep your post around 500-700 words, as this is a good length for most readers to consume in one sitting. If your audience is more specialized or interested in a particular topic, you may be able to write a longer post without losing their attention.

Use formatting and visuals to your advantage: To make your post more visually appealing and easier to read, consider using formatting techniques such as headings, bullet points, and images. These can help break up long blocks of text and keep your readers engaged.

Ultimately, the ideal length of a blog post will depend on the specific goals and audience of your blog. It is important to strike a balance between providing enough information to be helpful or informative, while also keeping your readers engaged and not overwhelming them with too much information.

A use case of how a mental health non-profit organisation can leverage on social media and blogging can be seen here. This is a sample blog post about anxiety: