Myths of Social Media: Dismiss the Misconceptions and Use Social Media Effectively in Business

by Michelle Carvill, Ian MacRae

Everyone knows that social media is free, millennials are all adept social media experts, that businesses always have to be available 24/7 and ultimately none of it really matters, as the digital space is full of fake news and online messaging is seen as inauthentic. Don't they?



The use of social media as a business tool is dominated by falsehoods, fictions and fabrications. In Myths of Social Media, digital consultant Michelle Carvill and workplace psychologist Ian MacRae dismiss many of the most keenly-held misconceptions and instead, present the reality of social media best practice. Using helpful and instructive, sometimes entertaining and occasionally eye-watering examples of what you should and should not do, Myths of Social Media debunks the most commonly held myths and shows you how to use social media effectively for work and at work.

240 pages, Hardcover

First published March 31, 2020

Reviews

[Tim Hughes · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve read three of Michelle Carvill’s books and they are all good.

This one takes 28 social media myths and dissects each one. While Michelle is a social media writer so you would expect a bias. But in fact she is balanced and backs each myth up with research and argues the point, for and against.

It’s a book you can pick up and read if you don’t know anything about social media, as she explains context with each myth discussion.

If I would make two criticisms; firstly some of the research is “old”. In the world of social media research from 2016 does not really have much bearing on the fast moving world of digital. My second concern was the lack of examples, it would have been nice to follow up each chapter with a case study.

It would be nice to think that maybe, just maybe, people who don’t “get” social media will give it a read and see what they are missing out on.

Please be aware that Michelle shares the same publisher as me and I was sent a copy to review.

[Genevieve Trono · Rating 4 out of 5]

I use social media both professionally and personally so this book definitely caught my eye. I loved that each chapter presented one myth about social media and then shared research to go along with it. This book was super readable and also quite interesting.

I especially enjoyed the sections on how much to share online, and how to best reach your audience. There were so many helpful parts of this book and whether you use social media as part of your work or just for fun, there really is something for everyone. Thank you to NetGalley and Kogan Page for an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Phillip Cole · Rating 5 out of 5]

It doesn’t matter where you stand on social media, it’s going to be around for a while. Both individuals and businesses use it, but there are many aspects of social media that have been misunderstood. Myths of Social Media addresses commonly held beliefs that are false, and what is actually true.

Aimed at businesses, the book covers 28 myths, such as social media replaces a website, it causes information bubbles, and that it is full of fake news. For each one, the actual truth is given, and the supporting research is provided. This book can serve as a guide for forming, or redoing, your social media presence. With it, you can better interact with your customers.

There are several myths busted that individuals can benefit from reading. I found several things that I need to look at both for my business and for myself.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

[Annarella · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very useful and interesting book it can be used for business but also for our private social life.
I like the style of writing and how the book is organised.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.

[Darya · Rating 3 out of 5]

If you want to have an overview on social media and how it is used for buso, this book can be of good help. It will walk you through different types of social media, they purposes and how the social media channels are used for business. Easy to read and some good ideas to reflect on.

[Amanda · Rating 3 out of 5]

An okay book with a basic good/bad view of social media. The author made some valid points but nothing earth shattering in the pages. Overall a decent amount of advice that is easy to understand.

[Alexandra · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some different myths looked at when relating to social media (obviously) and how true or untrue they are. Each myth is written like an article for a better understanding about the platforms. Really good for those who want more of an understanding to use social media.