Slojewski 1 Introduction I. Attention-getter: ‘If you make customers unhappy in the physical world, they might each tell 6 friends. If you make customers unhappy on the Internet, they can each tell 6,000 friends.’ -Jeff Bezos II. Central Idea: Social media negatively and positively impacts businesses and marketing III. Preview the main points: Create an increase in brand awareness Enables businesses to have direct contact with their target markets Cost efficient advertising IV. Transition: The first point is how social media allows businesses to create a greater awareness for their brands. BODY I. Main Point: Social media increases brand awareness A. A large proportion of the world population frequently uses social media 1. 60% of Instagram users have claimed that they have discovered new products from the application B. Supporting point: The businesses are able to reach a larger audience 1. Everyone checks their social media applications multiple times a day and rarely pay attention to traditional forms of marketing such as brochures or leaflets. II. Main Point: Businesses are able to have direct contact with their target markets A. For the first time businesses are able to communicate with their target markets and their target markets can communicate back 1. The customer has more power now 2. The business is placed in a more sensitive position B. They can manage their reputations 1. They can share their positive reviews and interactions 2. They can solve and correct their mistakes. C. Their mistakes on social media are permanent 1. Even after deleting posts their followers can screenshot it and continue to spread the unpleasant posts Transition: In addition to having more interactions with their customers they are able to advertise at a low cost. III. Main Point: Inexpensive Advertising A. Downloading social media applications is free Slojewski 2 1. It lowers the expenses of a business and allows businesses to use those saved funds to improve other aspects of the business 2. Social media is especially beneficial for new, small businesses that do not have a big budget B. It benefits some businesses more than others 1. If you are a reputable company like Pepsi or Coca cola it is easy to gain followers and engagement 2. It takes more time for smaller businesses to benefit from social media marketing Transition: CONCLUSION Social media allows businesses to: increase their brand awareness, have more interactions with their target markets and decrease their advertising costs. Despite these advantages, there are also some disadvantages. Businesses have less room to make mistakes and more reputable companies tend to benefit more from social media marketing.

Mastering the Art of Online Learning: Your Guide to Acing Online Courses

Introduction

In recent years, the popularity of online courses has skyrocketed, offering learners the flexibility to acquire new skills and knowledge from the comfort of their homes. However, succeeding in online courses requires a different approach compared to traditional classroom settings. To help you make the most of your online learning experience, this article presents essential strategies and tips to ace your online courses.

1. Set Clear Goals and Plan Ahead

Before embarking on an online course, establish clear goals and objectives. Determine what you hope to achieve by the end of the course and break down your goals into manageable milestones. Create a study schedule that aligns with your other commitments, ensuring you allocate dedicated time for coursework, assignments, and revision.

2. Create a Productive Study Environment

Establishing a conducive study environment is crucial for online learning success. Find a quiet, well-lit space where you can concentrate without distractions. Remove any potential interruptions, such as notifications from social media or email. Organize your study materials and have a reliable internet connection to ensure seamless access to course materials.

3. Actively Engage in the Course

Active participation is key to mastering online courses. Engage with course materials, including videos, readings, and interactive components. Take comprehensive notes, highlighting key concepts and ideas. Participate in discussion boards, forums, and virtual meetings to interact with instructors and peers, fostering a sense of community and enhancing your understanding of the subject matter.

4. Manage Your Time Effectively

Online courses offer flexibility, but it’s essential to manage your time wisely to avoid falling behind. Create a detailed schedule, allocating specific time slots for coursework, assignments, and studying. Break down larger tasks into smaller, manageable segments to prevent procrastination. Prioritize tasks based on deadlines and dedicate focused time to each one, ensuring consistent progress throughout the course.

5. Develop Effective Communication Skills

Online courses often rely on written communication, making it crucial to hone your skills in this area. Be concise and clear in your written responses, paying attention to grammar and spelling. Actively participate in discussions, asking thoughtful questions and providing constructive feedback to your peers. Regularly check your course emails and notifications, ensuring you stay updated with any important announcements or changes.

6. Utilize Available Resources

Take full advantage of the resources provided by your online course platform and instructors. Familiarize yourself with the learning management system (LMS) and explore its features. Access supplementary materials, such as textbooks, lecture slides, and external resources recommended by instructors. Utilize online libraries, research databases, and tutorial services to deepen your understanding of the subject matter.

7. Stay Motivated and Engaged

Maintaining motivation throughout an online course can be challenging, particularly when faced with competing priorities or a lack of face-to-face interaction. Set short-term goals and reward yourself upon their completion. Connect with fellow learners through virtual study groups or online forums to foster a sense of camaraderie. Regularly remind yourself of the benefits and personal growth associated with completing the course successfully.

8. Seek Support and Clarification

Don’t hesitate to seek support or clarification when needed. Reach out to your instructors for guidance or clarification on course material. Utilize online discussion forums to ask questions or engage in collaborative problem-solving. Leverage the support services provided by your course platform or institution, such as technical support or academic advising.

Conclusion

Online courses present unique opportunities for self-paced learning and personal growth. By setting clear goals, creating a productive study environment, actively engaging with course materials, and managing your time effectively, you can maximize your chances of acing online courses. Remember to stay motivated, seek support when needed, and make the most of the available resources. Embrace the flexibility and adaptability of online learning to achieve your educational goals.