Social networking gets serious

Purpose – This paper aims to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint practical implications from cutting‐edge research and case studies. Design/methodology/approach – This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context. Findings – Social media has come of age in the business environment. Today social media is used internally to foster communication and inter‐departmental team working. Externally social networking can be used to create new markets, build relationships with existing customers and recruit the best new staff. To get the best out of social networking, organizations need to strategically plan how it will be utilized and manage this effectively. Practical implications – The paper provides strategic insights and practical thinking that have influenced some of the world's leading organizations. Originality/value – The briefing saves busy executives and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy‐to digest format.