This Month in Social Media

Here's a round-up of my social media news and analysis from the last few weeks (from Examiner.com). This month, there's a lot about the effect of social media on your business.

Should you change your Facebook name when you get married?: Feminist concerns aside, changing your name can be hazardous to your digital brand (as I have said on this blog). Check out some tips for women who want to keep their "brand name" strong once they get married.

More companies block social networking sites: Web security provider ScanSafe saw a 20% increase in the number of companies blocking access to social networking sites in the last six months. We know the benefits social media can have at some companies, but companies are also recognizing the need to crack down on it.

Companies choose social media over e-mail to engage employees: On the other hand, a more comprehensive survey from Buck Consultants found that companies are utilizing social media to communicate with employees. (I know, there are so many surveys about companies using social media that it's hard to keep track.)

The Web holds companies accountable: Now is an empowering time to be a consumer; the rapidity and accessibility of the Web makes product reviews travel fast. I observed firsthand how a car service tried to correct its bad buzz on the Web. (By the way, wait until you hear about my experience with airlines related to this topic.)

Artists can sell straight from Facebook: Switching to the micro-business world, the Web has opened up huge windows for local artists to sell goods cheaply. ArtFire.com recently added an application so that artists can sell straight from Facebook.

How do I add a share button?: Have you ever wondered where you can get that little "share" button (see the orange icon below this post)? Share buttons a.k.a bookmarking tools allow users to spread your content on social media outlets all over the Web.

AddThis Adds to Direcotry of Social Networking Sites: Speaking of bookmarking services, AddThis announced its service will include even more social networking sites for users to share content.