Nayla R's Learning Journal

 My LinkedIn experience was eye-opening for me, as I've never used this platform before. It was strange for me to see a social media platform where everyone is serious. I definitely was confused about how it works and what counts as a connection. There was a little bit of a learning curve for me but eventually I got the hang of it. It was interesting to learn about a whole side of social media filled with different communities and groups that I had never heard of before. It surprised me that people use this platform for entertainment, not just for professional use. People genuinely seem to enjoy posting and connecting within their communities. While using LinkedIn I came to the conclusion that this would only provide professional benefit for me. I do not understand the enjoyment people find within this platform. However, I was amazed at the many ways that LinkedIn can be helpful in my professional life. I had a slight idea before, but it can really have a greater impact than I thou...

 The readings this week were very interesting, as I've never heard of the term "eWOM" before. However, it's played a big role in my life despite being unbeknownst to me. I always read through reviews and online opinions before buying a product online. I've used RateMyProfessor.com when choosing classes and avoid places that have been rated badly by visitors on Google Maps. I've also given certain TV shows a try based off of what I see people say on Twitter or Tiktok. These are only a few examples of the many ways I've unknowingly relied on eWOM.  While Erkan and Evans found that "people usually receive the eWOM information from their friends and acquaintances in social media", I find that I don't have a preference (Erkan & Evans, 2016). I do not feel more or less influenced by celebrities (as opposed to family and friends). For me, neither and both of their opinions can matter. I only take advice (at least when it comes to eWOM) from peop...