Social Media on Election Night

Maybe I'm just getting old (well, not maybe), but watching the election results on network television reminded me of the boredom of watching the Watergate hearings when I was a kid (boy, did I just date myself or what!).

I couldn't stand it ... election night coverage hasn't advanced a lick in twenty years. So what did I do?

I turned to social media!

I started the day by watching all my friends post on their Facebook walls that they had in fact voted. So cool. Then I spent time at night multi-tasking and bouncing between Facebook and Twitter, following the election results. By going online, I didn't have to hear all the commentators trying to fill air time (sorry!), but I got to hear from my friends and followers. I followed the news for sure, but I got to hear what they thought of what was going on. And truthfully, I care more about what they think.

Now that's the social phenomenon of social media!

It was strange at first, because I felt like I was missing something. I mean, I should have the tv on! But then once I got into the groove of things, I really enjoyed seeing all the comments and results. I loved it. The timing was quick, and the comments even quicker. It took a lot of effort to keep up, which was a blast.

I do have to give some props to abc though, for forming a partnership and doing a Facebook Town Hall. They reported all the activity on Facebook, which was interesting. The problem is that they "reported" it like it was news, rather than participate in it like it was social media. I quickly went back online. Good try, though.

A fascinating night, to say the least. Thanks to all my online friends for putting up with me.

What's your experience? Jim.