The psychology of Web 2.0.
The fear that the Internet causes isolation, that it prevents us from connecting with real people and with the world, has now dissipated. Social networks have conquered the Web. Never before has personal opinion been so accessible or acceptable. The interactivity of Web 2.0-powered sites such as social networking sites (MySpace, Facebook, Classmates, etc.), blogs (Blogger, WordPress, etc.), and bookmarking sites (de.licio. us, blink, furl, etc.) have made everyone’s ideas and life potentially important. Our shared and like-minded people now discuss extremely eclectic subject interests. Whether you’re into cats or bungee jumping, you can probably find ezines, chat rooms, forums, blogs, websites, and people who would love to inform you, stay informed, and build relationships around your topic of interest.
I am an internet marketer and I can see how Web 2.0 and the personal empowerment of networks are changing the way we do business. Early email marketing was riddled with spam and scams. New networking strategies are creating more accountability. We are involved in online communities, and banishment (being blocked) is the punishment for abuse. People like dealing with people, real people, so who we are becomes as important as what we say. The niche marketing concept, targeting interest groups, has flourished. There are now hungry consumers and marketing platforms on a rapidly growing list of interests.
I have begun to see mentions in psychology and counseling blogs and forums about the therapeutic uses of the Internet as a self-esteem builder. We can get closer, be heard or simply discover that we are not alone. You can become an expert in your chosen field, research any interests, find others to share information and teach or engage in discussions to improve and pursue our dreams. This is the time to shine, get out there and be seen and heard. So don’t feel alone or unappreciated, get connected, start a blog, join a social network, be free, be YOU 2.0.