Six Positive Ways to Use Social Media

This year, National Social Media Day (#SMDay) is Sunday, June 30. Social media is a helpful tool for myself and many of my clients.

Everyone has a particular reason for using social media. You probably can remember a few specific occasions where social media directly impacted you, either positively or negatively. You may love watching your grandkids grow up from afar, or appreciate the group chat that is always available in your close friend circle. You might enjoy reading stimulating quotes or getting ideas on how to promote your business. Many of us have made significant connections in business or life that started with a social media post – including myself.

Here are six great ways to use social media:

1. Build Your Brand

Create an online presence which represents what you value or represent. Take a close look at your profile picture, your logo, header and bio to make sure you are presenting yourself in the best possible light. Show consistency across the board on multiple social media platforms, recognizing each has a specific target audience.

2. Motivate and Connect

Your content will drive your followers. Make sure you are interacting and responding to comments. Ask yourself, “Will others be uplifted or moved to take action after reading my post?” Your words can have a great influence over others. Offer good thoughts and empowering words when you are in a position to do so. When possible, share other people’s posts if they are helpful or inspirational.

3. Step Outside of Your Comfort Zone

You may want to connect with someone you admire but feel uncomfortable reaching out by standard email. One approach is to follow their posts and comment when appropriate. They will eventually see you, and a connection may be a few posts away. If you reach out to them by private message, share how much you value their work (don’t ask for something or come across too strong). Letting them see you in your authentic environment is a good first step to a connection. Realize that there will be times when you can enjoy someone’s social media feed without making a face-to-face friendship.

4. Cross Promote Your Posts

All friends and followers are not the same. When you have something good to share, post it on several outlets so you can expand your reach. Don’t worry about repeating yourself with some of your favorite fans. Social media followers are aware, and understand, that posting across networks is part of interacting online. Be sure that formatting is clean and links are functional.

5. Drive Them Home

Your blog and website are what most businesses rely on when it comes to creating new business. Don’t forget to encourage your followers to visit your website(s) and to contact you through the contact page. Make it easy for people to receive your blog, subscribe to your email list, or buy your book.

6. Make New Friends but Keep the Old

Whether you are using social media for business or pleasure, make it a point to find new sites which are interesting are motivational. One idea is to identify a hashtag which brightens your day; there may be a thriving online community just a click away. Don’t forget about the people who have been following you since the very beginning. Grow your network and continue to show loyalty to those who have been with you along the way.

You may also like Spoiler Alert Etiquette. For more of Diane’s etiquette tips, “like” The Protocol School of Texas on Facebook, and follow Diane on Pinterest, Instagram and Twitter. Buy her new book, Modern Etiquette for a Better Life.