AGING ICON

Social Media is More Than Memes and Selfies

Not so long ago, if you had told me that I’d be excited about a college student joining the Social Media Association for $5 a month, I would have raised an eyebrow.

Not because I’m not excited about students, quite the opposite. But because, for a long time, “social media” was something I thought was for teenagers, influencers, or marketing departments with bigger budgets than mine.

Now? I see it differently.

From “Extra” to Essential

When social media first arrived, my cohort treated it like a shiny toy, fun to play with, maybe useful in business, but certainly not the main event. It sat somewhere in the corner, lumped under “public relations” or “marketing,” often managed by the newest intern.

Fast forward to today, and social media is no longer the appetizer. It’s the main course.
It’s where news breaks before it hits TV, where movements start before they hit the streets, and where brands, personal and professional, either thrive or disappear.

And the best part? You don’t have to be a tech wizard or marketing executive to use it effectively.

My Wake-Up Call

I’ll admit I used to be a skeptic. I didn’t need to post my breakfast or dance on TikTok to prove I was relevant. I had my network, my clients, and my reputation.

But then I realized something, social media isn’t about dancing or oversharing. It’s about:

• Staying informed in real time
• Connecting with people you might never meet otherwise
• Sharing what you know so people see your expertise and trust you
• Building your personal and business brand

As the Membership Chair of the Social Media Association, I’ve seen firsthand how social media has shifted from “just an option” to “mission critical” for anyone who wants to be seen, heard, and remembered.

The New Networking

Once upon a time, networking meant going to a luncheon, exchanging business cards, and hoping someone remembered you the next day.

Now?

You can make a connection on LinkedIn at 10AM, share an article that makes someone think at 2PM and be speaking to a potential client (or collaborator) by dinner.

Social media isn’t replacing in-person connection, it’s amplifying it. The handshake is still powerful, but now the “digital nod” keeps the conversation going long after the meeting ends.

Gravitas in the Digital Age

Here’s something I’ve learned: if you want people to take you seriously, you have to show up.

And in 2025, showing up means being visible online, not just in a once-a-year website update, but in regular, thoughtful posts that tell the world:

“I know what I’m talking about.”
“I care about this subject.”
“I’m here, and I’m paying attention.”

Social media lets you control your narrative. It allows you to demonstrate your knowledge, values, and experience before anyone even shakes your hand.

Social Media for All Generations

Some people think social media is a young person’s game. They’re wrong.

I’ve met retirees using Instagram to share stories from their careers, nonprofit founders in their 70s raising awareness on Facebook, and yes, college students using LinkedIn to build a professional reputation before graduation.

The most inspiring part? We’re all learning from each other. That’s why I’m so thrilled that students are joining the Social Media Association. They bring fresh ideas, curiosity, and a comfort with the platforms that can inspire the rest of us to try something new.

And in return, we offer perspective, strategy, and the wisdom of having seen trends come and go. Together, we bridge the gap.

Why I’m All In

I’m not a social media professional. I don’t spend my days analyzing algorithms or scheduling content calendars. But I’ve come to appreciate that if you want to be part of the conversation in your field, your community, or the wider world, you have to have a seat at the table.

And in many ways, that table is now digital.

I also want to make one thing clear and that’s I’ve been at this a long time. I started using social media in 2001, back when I was on Delphi Forums launching a national audience for my health reform speaking business.

I know firsthand the power these platforms have to connect people and spread ideas. And while I don’t do it all myself anymore because I have someone posting for me daily and a team creating content, my presence is deliberate and strategic. This isn’t about killing time online, it’s about building relationships, credibility, and visibility that matter.

Whether you’re a student just starting out, a seasoned professional looking to stay relevant, or an Aging Icon that might think social media is “for other people,” I encourage you to explore the possibilities.

Because social media isn’t just a part of PR or marketing anymore. It’s where we learn, share, connect, and yes, make an impact.

And the best part? You can start today from wherever you are.

August 13, 2025 - Posted by Aging Icon | Uncategorized | blogging, business, connections, digital-marketing, life, mental health, seniors, social media, Social Media Association, writing