Social Media as your life coach

The status updates that we make on a daily basis in our various platforms are reflections of our experiences. We tell various stories. Depending on the platform of our choice, we may be restricted from sharing certain things or presenting our selves in certain ways. In some platforms as soon as we click the send or share button, that information ceases to be ours or under our control. Social Media platforms have become places where we learn to play by the rules and practice self discipline. Failure to do this has consequences that may be dire.

A status update is never enough to articulate and attract loyal followers that can be convinced to do business with you. This is where blogging becomes an important part of your Social Media strategy. In a blog you will be able to explain and express yourself in detail. However, the blog is also another master teacher of discipline and commitment. You are restricted to a topic and a style of writing that will be appealing to your targeted audience. You will have to be consistent on producing in the times that are expected, otherwise your followers will loose interest and follow someone else. A good article will allow readers to contribute by adding their views or asking questions. There are also encouraged to share the article with their friends on other platforms, who in turn will share with their other friends. But once your article is published, you have to be available to respond to any questions and comments so that your audience feels part of your conversation. Remember Social Media is about engagement.

May business projects have well articulated business plans, but at times lack of discipline on the part of the promoters lead to the failure of projects that are otherwise pregnant with potential. Social Media, because of the personal commitment one has to put on it, can be a be a strategic performance measure. For your Social Media strategy to be successful, it cannot be outsourced. For a small enterprise, the owner has to manage all Social Media accounts. For big corporations, various strategies can be implemented. Some opt for departments to run their own campaigns whilst others have a center coordinating Social Media activities. Some do sub contract the Social Media activity to third parties, but to be frank, a third party can only help you set up but the may not know every detail about your organisation as would be inquired by your clients. Social Media is not just a Public Relations exercise, use it to engage with your clients, whilst you provide them with relevant content about your business. We would love to hear your views on how Social Media is aiding your personal, social and professional life.