It’s a natural thing to do. We work in an industry that constantly harps on the magic of social media as a marketing and promotion tool. In many ways it is. What is interesting is to watch, however, is the near manic push that purveyors of social media marketing make to be everything to everyone and to be everywhere.

Like most things in this life, it’s often best to take a step or two back to look at the reality as opposed to be swept away by the hype. That’s what a recent study by Pitney Bowes Software and reported by eMarketer of Internet activities in the UK, France, Germany, Australia and the US might help people to see (if they choose to believe it, of course).

Last year, I wrote a post for Marketing Pilgrim about ways that marketers can use their skills to give back to the community. With the holiday season already upon us, many people are looking for volunteer opportunities, so this seems like a great time for a quick refresh of that post.

There are, of course, hundreds of opportunities to volunteer in our local communities, from organizations like Habitat for Humanity to the local animal shelter. What I’m focusing on here, however, are opportunities that relate to the field of marketing. That allows you to do good and potentially get the added benefit of a career boost. (More on that below.)

Here are a few options to consider if you want to do some ‘social good’ this season – or anytime: