Hanging your social media accounts can lead you down some serious rabbit holes and into a time void. But if you clean up your act a bit, and focus on what’s important, social can save you time and bring in new business. So claim your independence from all that’s holding you back! You know, like this stuff:
Social Media Time Suck #1: Worrying too much about the competition
Don’t spend so much time lurking around other people’s social media profiles to see if you’re missing something, doing things “right,” or staying on trend. The only way to stand apart and be heard above all the noise is to be unique. Follow your gut – not your competitors.
Social Media Time Suck #2: Chasing “likes” and followers
Vanity metrics are an important component of your overall social media analytics, but they should not be your sole focus. An audience – of any size – that’s engaged (commenting and clicking on, sharing and liking your content and reviewing your products and services) is far more valuable than buying Followers to gain a larger quantity. When you share content that your audience is interested in, that entertains or informs them, on a regular basis, your Follower Count will grow organically. These are the folks who will pay more for your products and services, and recommend you to their friends, because they have come to see you as a trusted brand and solid source of industry information. Stop chasing the metrics and focus on engaging with thoughtful comments, honest answers, and helpful information instead.
Social Media Time Suck #3: Being chained to analytics
Are your eyes crossing from staring at Google reports or graphs of retweets and mentions? Can you recite your influence and engagement levels in your sleep? Step away from the analytics! Not forever, mind you. But, don’t be so caught up in what they say – especially if you’re just starting out. Instead, immerse yourself in the engagement! Start conversations, share great content, write even better content, say “hello” to new followers – just enjoy the social space and when you do check your analytics again, you just might be surprised at the rise in all of those numbers.
Social Media Time Suck #4: Social shortcuts
You the know the stuff: hitting “reshare” on great content rather than taking the time to add a thought or two about why you’re sharing it. Or clicking the “connect” button on LinkedIn instead of sending a personal note letting someone know you’d like to connect – and why. These shortcuts might help you get things done faster, but they’re a waste of your valuable time that could be spent connecting in more meaningful ways.
Social Media Time Suck #5: Focusing only on high profile accounts
I know a lot of folks whose M.O. is to only follow back or engage with high profile accounts. They believe that engaging with anyone else will only make them look less important. The truth is that spending time engaging with accounts that have smaller followings can be a valuable use of your time. These folks may turn out to be your greatest assets. They are the ones who’ll engage the most, share your content and make time for conversations. Social media engagement has no room for ego. Arrogance is a complete waste of time. Be humble, respectful, and generous. Authenticity rules.
Managing your brand’s social media profiles can be daunting and time consuming. Behind-the-handle consulting might be just what you need to jump-start stronger engagement and ROI.
