Social media is defined as activities that integrate technology, social interaction, and sharing various digital media like words, pictures, and videos. It is different from traditional media in being more conversational. Social media platforms can be used for personal, professional, or institutional purposes, with examples like Facebook, LinkedIn, blogs, and YouTube. When used in healthcare and other industries, social media can enable communication, information sharing, collaboration, and connection, but users must remember that anything posted can become part of a permanent online record visible to potential employers and others, so it is important to consider professional ethics and who might see a post before sharing online.