In today’s technological era, social media usage has become inseparable from daily life (Bengtsson & Johansson, Sofia, 2022). Various social media platforms such as TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, X, and others represent a new form of transformation (Amelia, 2023) for interaction and communication, both at the individual and community levels. This digital communication dynamic opens up vast new opportunities. However, if these interactions are not managed well, they may present challenges that could hinder planned activities.

Social Media as a Connecting Tool in Communities

The primary advantage of social media use is its ability to connect various entities (Omar & Ondimu, 2024) with shared goals, interests, or passions, without being restricted by geographical distance, space, or time. In a community, members can use WhatsApp through discussion groups to talk about various topics, such as hygiene, education, the environment, security, or other social realities. Meanwhile, global communities, such as gaming groups, motorcycle enthusiasts, hobbyists, or food lovers, can leverage platforms like Facebook Groups to share ideas, thoughts, experiences, and information.

Previously, in community interactions, the dissemination of information required significant time through face-to-face communication or traditional media such as newspapers. With its real-time nature, social media platforms now enable fast and efficient communication. News and information can be instantly shared via posts or messages on social media. For instance, during emergencies like natural disasters, communities can use social media to provide updates on disaster locations, areas needing assistance, or the latest developments.

Social media provides a wide space for participation in various community activities. Members who were previously passive can now actively contribute to developing their community’s potential through ideas, opinions, or simply sharing information about community activities with their networks. This fosters more inclusive and diverse dynamics, where every voice can be heard without physical presence. Collaboration among community members also becomes easier. For example, an Indonesian Migrant Workers’ community in Taiwan recently organized a fundraising campaign via TikTok to repatriate a domestic worker who passed away while working. Other platforms, like X, have been used to broadcast campaigns raising awareness about environmentally friendly energy use.

The dynamics of community interactions through social media evolve very quickly. Information spreads with little hindrance, enabling swift decision-making. However, if not managed well, this speed can pose risks, such as the spread of inaccurate information or hoaxes. Thus, it is crucial for communities to have verification mechanisms before disseminating information (Kahn & Idris, 2019).

Social media allows interactions to be more transparent and open. However, this openness must be accompanied by an understanding of digital communication ethics to manage unproductive debates effectively.

The role of community leaders in the digital era, according to the author, no longer requires formal positions. Any active and creative community member who can effectively utilize social media often becomes an informal leader, driving the community to take certain actions.

Maximizing Social Media for Community Development

To maximize social media usage for developing community programs, community managers should enhance the digital literacy of their members. This enables them to discern accurate information and understand communication ethics in the social media space. Communities should select the social media platforms that best suit their needs, such as WhatsApp for internal communication, Instagram for promotions, or Facebook for discussions.

Lastly, communities should establish rules regarding social media usage for conveying their programs and activities. These rules can help prevent conflicts and misuse that may harm the community, such as guidelines about content or information that may or may not be shared.

Nonetheless, the adoption of digital technology does not mean abandoning existing face-to-face interactions. While social media facilitates communication, personal interaction remains essential for building deeper relationships and bonds. Furthermore, the use of social media in communities should aim for their development, ensuring that all members have the opportunity to participate and voice their opinions.

-Diana Anggraeni

References

Amelita, Lolitha. (2023). Changes in Communication Patterns in the Digital Age. Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities 3(4):544-556. DOI:10.35877/soshum1992

Bengtsson, Stina & Johansson, Sofia. (2022). The Meanings of Social Media Use in Everyday Life: Filling Empty Slots, Everyday Transformations, and Mood Management. https://doi.org/10.1177/20563051221130

Kahn, Laeeg M & Idris, Ika. (2019). Recognize Misinformation and Verify Before Sharing: A Reasoned Action and Information Literacy Perspective Behaviour and Information Technology 38 (1). DOI:10.1080/0144929X.2019.1578828

Omar, Amina S & Ondimu, Kennedy O. (2024). The Impact of Social Media on Society: A Systematic Literature Review. The International Journal of Engineering and Science (IJES), Vol. 13 (6). DOI:10.9790/1813-130696106