At least that is what I hear frequently from CPAs.
But that is not what the latest research from Pew Internet says. In a recent report, Pew notes, “Social networking use among Internet users ages 50 and older nearly doubled — from 22 percent in April 2009 to 42 percent in May 2010.”
The hottest sites are Facebook and LinkedIn, with about 10 percent of the older age group using Twitter on a daily basis. Usage by the younger generations (ages 18-29) is up over 86 percent.
The report also said that for the younger generations, e-mail is now passe', being replaced with status updates and texting. (For some great background on generations, see this post from Rick Telberg.)
What does this mean?
It means that CPAs need to re-think social media for business purposes. What happens if your customers (yes, even older ones) are on social media sites and you (and your firm or organization) aren't?
We continue to see some great uses of social media by CPAs and believe it is now past the point of being optional. See an interview with our own Bill Sheridan on why social media needs to be considered.
Did you know we have a self-directed learning site for CPAs (and others) to learn social networking in 15 minutes a day? And it is free — our gift to the CPA profession to help you stay ahead of the curve in this growing area. You can visit the site at www.cpalearning2.com.
Did you know we have a social media quickstart program for CPAs? Seven weeks of telecoaching to create your social media strategy and get you jump-started with blogging, Twitter, etc.
Please join us online here:
Want to know more? Come join us at our upcoming Technology Conference for some great sessions on social media. The conference will be held on Sept. 13 at the BWI Marriott Hotel. Register here
Tell us: What are your favorite social media tools?