Spotlight On Social Media
How Come I Don't Get Any Business Off Social Media?
A lot of people complain to me because they aren't getting any business on social media. They hear stories of people making millions online and they've never gotten so much as a like, much less a follow. Many people end up writing social media off and pour more money into traditional advertising. Traditional advertising has its place, but don't overlook social media just because it hasn't worked so far.
Like many things in life, you get out of social media what you put into it. It's not a magic carpet that picks you up and whisks you away to success. It's more like a magic lamp, because the more you rub it, the more of your wishes you'll have come true.
Dirty Little Social Media Secrets
As a social media specialist I have an opportunity to see a lot of dirty little social media secrets. One of the first things many clients confess to me, right off, is that they can't get into their social media pages anymore. Sometimes that's as simple as changing a password, but sometimes I have to do real detective work, because the last time they touched a particular social channel was not only years ago, it was also three jobs and two emails ago.
More often, new clients can use their accounts from their phone and/or their computer, but they haven't got a clue what their password might be. Whatever the case is with you, don't fret, the social media giants want you to use their tools, so they will help you get back into your accounts and recover your passwords. It can be challenging, even frustrating, but I can help.
After I have gotten over the hump of actually getting into their social media pages, that's when the skeletons come out of the closet. The list is long and I assure you there is nothing you have done or not done that I haven't seen, but let's talk about what works.
Engagement and Reciprocation
What probably amazes me most is all the warm and friendly people who clam up on line. If you don't want any business from your social media channels, then being a ghost is fine, but the Casper act doesn't work for entrepreneurs, small business owners, real estate agents or anyone else who want business from social media.
Remember! Social media is social. Don't be a social media wallflower. Get in there and post and like and comment and share. Tag people in your posts and give them credit for their part in your success. Thank people, compliment people, brag on businesses that are doing a great job. Imagine all the things you'd like for people to do for you on your social media page and do it unto them first!
Even more important is the principle of reciprocation. When someone mentions you on social media, like that post, comment on that post and then share it. If someone is faithful to like your posts, comment on them and share them, then take the time to do the same for their posts. Spend time responding to friend requests and follow people who follow you. If someone is your friend on your personal page, go to their business page and follow their business, then give them the opportunity to like/follow your business page
Be Brave
The best advice I can give you on social media is this, be brave. You will not blow up the internet or your life by hitting the wrong button. If you post something you don't mean to, you can always delete it. Don't be afraid search for people to join your tribe. Liking, sharing and commenting won't cost you a penny. Experiment and explore.
The media is full of horror stories, but if you look past the alarming headlines, most people had to do a series of really stupid things to get in trouble on social media. Obviously, you can start a fire storm with politics or religion, but promoting your business and building your brand are pretty safe things to do. One thing is for sure - if you don't, no one else will either.
These are just a few hints I'd share with anyone who wanted to get more out of social media. If you'd like to ramp up your social media presence there are many ways I can help, from teaching you how to do your own social media management, to taking over the whole mess for you. Just give me a call at 971-971-5263 and we'll talk about what will work best for you.