Social media has and can be used mainly for good. Celebrities have used it to connect with their fans, and show another part of their personality, life or some behind the scenes insights to fans In essence, it’s great to help them develop further their brand.
Of course, with this direct access – free from the filter of a publicist – fans and trolls can have instant and direct access to celebs as well. That usually doesn’t always end well.
That is because social media has also been a way for fans to trolls to offend, insult and agitate celebs. When celebrities get into Twitter fights, for example, with fans, other celebrities or social media users, social media can become a tool for damaging a brand. Some that act up can lose gigs, endorsements and other opportunities especially if they curse, use racial or religious slurs or insults and/or otherwise damage the brand for which they are a brand ambassador.
Because of the damaging effect, some celebs choose to stay off altogether. I agree with Bradley Cooper who has said that social media diminishes the mystique that comes with being a large public figure. Once a celebrity goes off online, he can quickly lose respect among followers and other casual observers. A tarnished impression could spill over into their craft.
Social Media Today‘s Infographic summarizes, generally, how celebrities use social media.
Jay Jay Ghatt is also editor at Techyaya.com, founder of the JayJayGhatt.com and JayJayGhatt.com where she teaches online creators how to navigate digital entrepreneurship and offers Do-It-For-You Blogging Service. She manages her lifestyle sites BellyitchBlog, Jenebaspeaks and JJBraids.com and is the founder of BlackWomenTech.com 200 Black Women in Tech On Twitter. Her biz podcast 10 Minute Podcast is available on iTunes and Player.fm. Follow her on Twitter at @Jenebaspeaks. Buy her templates over at her legal and business templates on Etsy shop!
