Marilyn's Life From East to West


So Many Theories- The Role of Media Today
February 9, 2010, 9:51 pm
Filed under: Senior Seminar

So, in my senior seminar class for public relations we have been going over what seems like a thousand theories.  Don’t get me wrong, I like learning about them, but there are so many.  In college, theories classes have really been some of my favorites because I like to learn about the thinking process behind the media and the way we as humans learn.  Some theorists believe that the media determine what is important to the public and what should be on the agenda (agenda setting) & there are other who believe people learn from social values and one’s expected outcomes (social learning theory).

One of the most interesting things about theories is that none of them are actually right, that’s why they are THEORIES, and are all up to interpretation.  In class now we have picked 7 theories and are going to relate them to TV shows and movies.  This is what I’m talking about!  I think relating classwork (in this case theories) to TV shows and movies about PR practitioners is such a good idea because its practical.  Learning about really anything in class is hard to get a real grasp on until you are able to apply it to something in your every day life.

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Benefits/Pitfalls of Social Media in the Job Search
February 9, 2010, 8:53 pm
Filed under: PR Practicum 3711

Personally, I think that social media has done a world of wonders; not only for those involved in public relations, but also anyone in the work force.  Social media involves Twitter, Facebook, blogging, Linkedin, MySpace, etc.  I know I’m forgetting some but you get the idea.  At my age and in college almost everyone I know is involved in some sort of social media, mainly Facebook.  Nowadays parents and some grandparents are even getting hooked on Facebook, which is pretty neat.  My mom uses Facebook to try and get back in touch with her high school and college friends.  Social Media has basically become a revolution and its going to keep getting bigger!  It’s scary to think that one day my generation will be the people asking all the questions about new technology and not having a clue what it all means.

Benefits:  If social media is used properly, the benefits can be amazing and really helpful.

  • Employers can see how involved you are with social media- and today for many jobs that is a must!!!
  • Knowing how to use Twitter, Facebook, and blogs are important to many companies because they count on the young people to keep up with the trends and be able to help the company and keep them updated in that respect.
  • Social media can be a great way for employers to see some of your work and if you would fit in well with them
  • If they “Google” your name and a bunch of websites (positive that is) come up, that could make you look really good and standout
  • Showing you are involved in more than one network is a good indication that you will be very involved in work in more than one way
  • Each form of social media has its own benefit and the more involved you are- THE BETTER- because they each can help you stay connected in various ways
  • Google your own name and see what comes up.  If there is only a little bit that’s totally okay, there is always room for improvement.  The more involved you are the more you will have to show for it (literally).

Pitfalls: steer clear from these points because they just might make you lose that dream job

  • Don’t post inappropriate pictures on Facebook- this seems like common sense but employers look at Facebook to see a variety of things and if you don’t look professional then why even bother?  They are not going to be impressed with the giant beer in your hand.
  • Employers will also see your “status” on Facebook so try and keep it PG so they don’t think you are a party animal or totally irresponsible.
  • Unlike certain networks, Twitter is a site that employers can pretty much see everything you write.  Some people do protect their profile, but personally it seems like a small number, so make sure those comments are web appropriate.
  • Don’t post YouTube videos that could get you in trouble later on down the road
  • Minimize/exclude bad language
  • For the most part, employers have access to anything they want to know about you so to put it simply:  IF YOU WOULDN’T WANT YOUR PARENTS TO SEE IT- DON’T PUT IT ONLINE.
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