Need to use social networking sites? Novel idea! Hire someone who uses them daily!

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Teens Frequently Mention Risky Behaviors on Social Networking Sites

About half of teens reference substance use or other risky behaviors on social networking Web sites, such as MySpace, a recent study found. The study was published in the January issue of the Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine. A related study notes that developing online interventions using these social networking venues may be a cost effective way to reduce risky behaviors. Learn how to use social networking sites for prevention and intervention efforts during two workshops at CADCA´s upcoming National Leadership Forum XIX.

I am on several listserves for work. I get a lot of information about non-profit organizing etc and it's usually harmless and even occasionally interesting. So why am I posting about teens and social networking? Because I found it a mildly funny that CADCA is hosting multiple workshops on how to use facebook and mysapce. Not because it's bad idea. In fact, it's a great way to reach lots of teenagers and young adults (and some not so young adults too!) It's funny because people need to learn how to use these sites, when there is a whole generation of young, able workers who already have these skills. Novel idea: hire some of these skilled young people. Social networking is a valuable asset, not just a time wasting procrastinating activity. Why force entrenched staff members to try and compete against tech savvy 'kids' who have been typing since they could talk? Now, there is absolutely nothing wrong with having staff learn new skills. But it's frustrating when so many organizations are reluctant to hire new graduates, or almost worse, hire them and then mock them for their mild facebook addiction or (horror!) ability to navigate online. It's really lucky (thanks Becky!) when you can find an employer who recognizes these skills as such and takes full advantage of their staff without being patronizing. Social networking is a skill people! Appreciate those who can text with ease, upload pictures, navigate notes & posting and give us jobs!