10 Social Media Lessons

Over the past two and a half years, I have, in some form or fashion, worked as a social media manager/digital strategist. Over that time I feel as if I have learned a few lessons that others might find of value. Recently, at a conference called Dream Year, I was asked to share 10 lessons. They’re not the end all be all, but they’ve certainly helped me along the way, as I have developed campaigns, implemented strategy, or starting a community from scratch.

1) PATIENCE – EXPECT IT TO TAKE TIME
Don’t expect to be an instant success. If you go into your social media efforts with the understanding that it may take nearly a year to grow a strong community, then you will most likely continue growing your brand’s presence. I’ve seen too many people give up, simply because “it didn’t take off.” 2 months is not enough time to grow a community and develop influence, to whatever scale that may look like. It’s going to feel awkward, much like growing your hair out. Once you get past that awkward phase, then you’ll see what your presence can truly become.

2) KNOW YOUR INTENTIONS
I tend to always start here when developing a strategy. I like to identify at least three things that make your “brand” unique. If we can identify three unique factors about your “brand” then we can develop diverse content all day long.
It’s also important to know who you have the opportunity to influence. Who will be the brand champions that will have the most reach to spread your message? Who will they influence? Think beyond your immediate followers.

3) DEVELOP YOUR APPROACH
What is it that you can deliver to your community? What can you deliver more passionately or effectively? What are you willing to deliver? You don’t have to be an expert to start talking. Just be yourself, speak from an authentic passion. Let your personality come through in your social media presence.

4) WHERE WILL YOU SPEND YOUR TIME?
Experiment with different networks, discover where you community is the most engaged and active. For me, it’s Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and Pinterest.
Where you decide to spend your time, decide to Measure and Monitor what’s happening. What type of content gets the most interaction? Deliver more of that.

5) ENGAGE, ENGAGE, ENGAGE
This might be the most crucial of all the steps. Be there. Be involved. Engage your friends, fans, followers, or whomever is reaching out to you. As you engage online, make every effort to connect offline. Ask those you’re learning from, those that inspire you, or influence you, to get coffee. Actually take the time to meet people. My friend Ben makes a good point in saying “Everywhere you go, you should try to meet up with someone.” Use twitter to discover new people and ask to connect. It’s amazing the people you’ll meet through social media.

Part II coming tomorrow. Until then….
What are your top social media lessons?