Going Live

If you are even remotely active on social media, then chances are you have recently seen an influx of users "going live". The feature, now available on platforms such as Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook, is being used by both personal, and business accounts in order to make stronger connections to their followers, and as an innovative marketing technique. Just when you thought that social media couldn't bring you further into the lives of your favorite celebrities, you can now watch them sitting on their couch, in real time! Live streams also further our ability to discuss events in real time, by utilizing features such as chat rooms, or "reacts" during sporting events, political speeches, etc.

For those interested in video games, the concept of live streams has been relevant for quite some time, with streaming websites like Twitch allowing users to watch e-sport events, and interact with video game celebrities. Now, more "A-List" type celebrities are cashing in on the live feature to help grow their personal brands. Athletes, who we often times only see on the field/court, now have a way to show off who they really are to their fans. The sports worlds even collide when you have professional basketball players, live streaming them playing their favorite video games. 

Although the instant nature of social media is often times praised for how quickly content can be produced, it can also be a serious issue, especially when it comes to live streaming. By going live, you are completely giving up your ability to edit your material, and your posts can not be immediately deleted(can anything really be deleted on the internet?). This makes it it necessary to prepare before going live, not only to make sure you don't say/do something wrong, but also to make sure that you are using the technique effectively. That being said, be on the lookout for even more live streaming in 2018, as people/organizations continue to try to find new ways to transform their brand.