Social Media is Social

Social media doesn't need to make you feel like this. 

In fact, we live in an era that social media is an essential part of business. Social media is social....

Rick Cooper was a recent guest on my Conversations with Charmaine radio show, and provided some very helpful information about social media for businesses.  You can listen here:

Listen to internet">http://www.blogtalkradio.com">internet radio

He offered some very valuable reminders for businesses, leaders and entrepreneurs as it relates to social media and its best uses.  He urged us to remember that social media is social, it is about building relationships and conversations with people, not about actively selling and marketing.

In fact, Rick suggested that we apply the 80/20 rule: 80% of your social media posts should be conversations and relationship based, and 20% or less can be promotional.  Rick suggested that you look at Twitter and Facebook to see what people are sharing. It seems that quotes, photos and photos with quotes, and inspirational or humorous messages are what gets actively shared, and videos.  Think about what you can offer your friends and followers that is of value, and gets them engaged. 

Remember to respond back to people in the conversation. Otherwise it feels like you start a conversation and then walk out. 

You can also use social media to connect with people before events. Rick shared a story whereby someone approached him at a business networking event, as the individual had found and connected with Rick first through different social media platforms. This certainly helps with engagement, and relationships building.

How can you apply the 80/20 rule in your social media plan?
1) pre write posts for 30 days
2) create a social media plan with themes for each month
3) use a timer when on social media so that you do not get lost in cyberspace.

Feel free to share this blog with others who can benefit from the tips.