The future of social is Bringing People Together. This statement holds true as we reflect on the evolution of social media platforms and the impact they have had on our lives. In the early days, the tools were rudimentary, and the builders were naively optimistic that a more open and connected world would lead to a better world since everyone had a voice. However, as time went on, we began to see the negative consequences of this interconnectedness.

The future of social is Bringing People Together. This statement holds true as we reflect on the evolution of social media platforms and the impact they have had on our lives. In the early days, the tools were rudimentary, and the builders were naively optimistic that a more open and connected world would lead to a better world since everyone had a voice. However, as time went on, we began to see the negative consequences of this interconnectedness.

One of the main issues that emerged is the dominance of likes and follows in shaping our perception of ourselves. With everyone becoming their own media channel, people started to curate their online persona, often hiding their true selves. Social interactions became a competition, with individuals striving for more likes and followers. This phenomenon has led to a distortion of our social interactions, where authenticity takes a backseat.

Recognizing the need for a change, even social media giant Facebook is repositioning its efforts around more private communications. The reasoning behind this shift is that in private conversations, people tend to express more of their true selves and share more intimate details than they do on their feeds or "media channels." This move by Facebook signifies a shift towards a more authentic and genuine form of social interaction.

Another major issue that has emerged in the world of social media is the heavy reliance on advertising as the main revenue driver for top social companies. Advertising revenue models are built on the time users spend on the app. This creates a zero-sum game, where social media platforms are incentivized to keep users engaged for as long as possible. This constant pursuit of user attention has led to addictive behaviors and a negative impact on mental health.

In light of these issues, it is clear that the next wave of social products needs to focus on experiences rather than media. While media channels have their place, they should not be the sole focus of social platforms. Instead, the emphasis should be on creating meaningful experiences that bring people together. Whether it's going to a concert together, sharing a meal, or simply hanging out, these real-life experiences are what truly matter and create lasting memories.

The importance of connection and inclusion cannot be overstated. In a world where social interactions have become increasingly virtual, it is crucial to prioritize genuine human connections. By fostering a sense of belonging and togetherness, social platforms can create a positive impact on individuals' lives and overall well-being.

As we look to the future of social, it is important to consider the role of venture capital firms like Greylock in shaping this landscape. At Greylock, their mission is to help realize rare potential. They believe in being trusted partners to entrepreneurs at every stage, from idea to IPO. They focus on enterprise and consumer software at the seed and Series A stages, often working with founders and their first employees.

What sets Greylock apart is their commitment to excellence and their availability to leadership teams. They are not just a funding option, but rather true partners who are actively involved and invested in the success of the companies they back. This level of engagement and support is invaluable for early-stage startups looking to make a significant impact in the social space.

In conclusion, the future of social lies in bringing people together through meaningful experiences. It is crucial to prioritize authenticity and genuine human connections over the pursuit of likes and follows. Venture capital firms like Greylock play a vital role in shaping this future by supporting and nurturing early-stage startups with a vision for creating positive change in the social landscape.

To make the most of this future, here are three actionable pieces of advice:

• 1. Prioritize real-life experiences: While social media has its place, make an effort to prioritize real-life experiences with friends and loved ones. These experiences are what create lasting memories and meaningful connections.

• 2. Embrace authenticity: Be true to yourself on social media and encourage others to do the same. By fostering a culture of authenticity, we can create a more genuine and fulfilling social experience.

• 3. Choose your social platforms wisely: Not all social media platforms are created equal. Consider the values and mission of the platforms you engage with. Look for platforms that prioritize connection, inclusion, and a positive impact on mental health.

By following these actionable advice, we can shape a future of social that truly brings people together and enhances our lives in meaningful ways.