Although the buzz about social media seems to have proliferated every thing I see and hear these days, I am still pretty shocked by the number of local businesses that have not gotten anywhere near it as a tool for business. I am quite sure the same kinds of trepidation over getting into a locomotive, a car, or an airplane when they first arrived on the transportation scene.
In the last few months Dee and I have had the honor of speaking to accountants, lawyers, doctors, construction companies, office professionals, and small business owners about social media. Many of then express the same questions about the validity and value of social media.
I think about teaching my children to swim when I am trying to illustrate using social media. At some point we need to stop standing on the deck and get into the water. Even if getting into the water means sitting on the deck for a while with your feet dangling over the edge and your toe dip in. Read on and perhaps by the end you will be ready to get in the pool.
It is hard to tell people where to start but Technology Workgroup teaches the 5 C’s of Social media. just like buying diamonds there are things you must have to make the best choices. Let’s look at these:
1. Conversation: Social media is about having conversations with others. That means listening as well as talking. Already you are objecting by telling me you don’t care what I had for lunch or that I am going to the bathroom. I agree, that many people don’t care about such mundane things, but there maybe those who do. Social media gives you the power to choose who you converse with. You are not forced to follow, friend, or connect to anyone; and the ability to withdraw connections are there too as well as the option to filter. The best way to limit your exposure to unwanted banter is to choose your online relationships carefully and wisely. Connect to intelligent and interesting people and offer the same qualities.
2. Collaboration: Work with others to find answers, offer advice, and solve problems. Online relationships allow you to reach out beyond your zip code and work with others you would have never even met otherwise.
3. Cooperation: Be helpful and even when you must be blunt, don’t be a jerk about it. Like mom always told you, “If you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything.”
4. Community: Join groups that interest you and those that you can have interest in. Seth Godin says we all want to be part of a tribe. That is really a big part of social media is belonging to a greater community. You will be surprised in the protection, nurturing, and growth that can fostered.
5. Comment: Don’t just hang around like some kind of “creeper” as my oldest daughter would say. Chat, mingle, make friends. You can just jump right into the party if you want. That is not to say you can’t spend a little time checking the level of the room, but if you have something to say or add, by all means do so.
So with all of those things in your head, go over to Twitter and sign up for an account. If you are having trouble getting started or aren’t really sure how then go over to our website and sign up for our mailing list. In exchange for your time you will receive a free eBook on how to get started with Twitter. If you really get stuck, post a question here on the blog and Dee or I will answer you and see if we can’t get you started.
Michael Mock
Technology Workgroup 