This is a Guest Post sent in by reader Shannon Koenig and written by Nataki Clarke, VP of Online Marketing at AARP.
It seems like everybody these days is on Facebook or Twitter or MySpace…or all
of the above – but what if you aren't yet? Is it too late to jump on the
trend? Absolutely not!
AARP just released the results of a survey that found more than a quarter (27%)
of Americans age 50+ are using social media websites to connect with their
family members and friends. That is a lot of tech-savvy baby boomers and older
Americans online…why not join them if you haven't already?
If you're just getting started with social networking, here are a few tips
from Nataki Clarke, VP of online marketing at AARP.
1. MAINTAIN YOUR PRIVACY – Every social networking site allows you to set
and monitor your own privacy controls, but also remember to only share or post
information that you are comfortable with other people seeing.
2. IF A COMMUNICATION OR FRIEND REQUEST MAKES YOU UNCOMFORTABLE OR SOUNDS
FISHY, DON'T ENGAGE – And don't feel badly for denying a request from
someone you don't know!
3. HAVE A FAMILY MEMBER WHO'S ALREADY ON THE SITE SHOW YOU THE ROPES –
AARP's survey showed that 47% of adults 50+ originally heard about social
networking from a family member other than their spouse, and of those, 70%
heard about it from a child or grandchild. Someone who's already on social
networking sites can give you a quick tour and help you get your page set up.
4. DON'T FEEL OVERWHELMED – Remember, you only need to be as involved as
you feel comfortable. Between work, family and friends, we've all got a lot
on our plates. Don't make the mistake of thinking social networking is too
much work.
5. HAVE FUN AND BE YOURSELF! – You never know what kind of discussions –
and even friendships – might start!
AARP just debuted its overhauled website to keep up with the changing needs of
the 50+ generation, focusing more on social networking and its very popular
online community, as well as an entirely new look and feel. It encourages more
user engagement, and that's just what users want! AARP.org is a place to
read, watch and learn, but also a place to share ideas and participate in
discussions. The online community groups are a great place to start if you're
looking for a lay of the land of social networks. Check them out at
http://www.aarp.org/technology/social-media/info-06-2010/socmedia.html. You don't have to be 50 to join in on the conversation – so what are you waiting for?
Thanks Shannon and Nataki, great information!
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