Is social media ruining your friendships?

I was reading this post about social media ruining friendships, and it got me thinking. I know many recent grads rely on social media as a way to communicate--maybe more than others. I'm 10 years out of college, so I use social media, but I don't divulge every detail on my Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn statuses. Many people don't.

But I'm surprised how many people get upset when they don't know what's going on in someone's life. How can they get upset if a person chooses not to share everything on Facebook.

Especially when it comes to a close friend. Can they get mad when you don't share every detail? Well, they can. But is it justified?

Everyone has their own comfort level with what they post and how they react to a post, but when you start to rely on social media as your means of communication, you can lose connection to those closest in your life. A status message replaces a phone call or a cup of tea--but really, it doesn't.

Next time you need to connect with someone, pick up the phone or at least send an email. Or if you find out about major life news from someone you thought was close to you, try not to get mad. Instead, connect more--using everything other than social media. Maybe send a letter. Maybe call. Maybe set up time to spend time. Especially with those close to you.

It's easy to get wrapped up in social media, but sometimes, even a regular status message doesn't communicate well.

Never Get a "Real" Job Giveaway

I've got another giveaway for a book I really think you'll like! This time it's for Never Get a Real Job by Scott Gerber. And if you are into freelancing or you dream of starting your own business, or you're on the way with another entrepreneurial venture, this is a great book to have.

About the author:

Scott Gerber is a serial entrepreneur, internationally syndicated columnist, angel investor and public speaker. In additoin to his website at www.nevergetarealjob.com, he also heads up the Young Entrepreneur Council, a group created to help 20-somethings and other young entrepreneurs bring their business ideas to life.

Check out this page--the collection of inspiring young business people is proof that you can do anything. And as Scott says, you don't ever have to get a "real" job to make it happen!

Wanna enter? Leave a comment here with your email address, full name and location. Winners will be chosen at random. Contest ends Friday, February 4, 2011.



(In giveaway news, the business card/resume critique winner was chosen--details coming soon!)

Hiring to Rise for Bachelor-level Jobs

Good news for recent grads trying to find a job--things are looking up. According to a report from Recruiting Trends, overall hiring will rise by 3%, but hiring at the Bachelor's level is predicted to soar by 10%.

Check out the full article here from PBS' The Business Desk with Paul Solman.