Social Media 101 – the basics
I have been toying with the idea of teaching a Social Media 101 workshop for small business owners and nonprofit leaders. I’m still noodling the logistics of it. In the meantime, I want to share some basic steps for those of you just getting started or feeling a bit lost in what to do next.
My goal when advising people / business owners on what to do with their social media is to teach them that cultivating a community online is more important that how many followers you have. Building awareness around your brand and offering useful, thoughtful, educational or entertaining content is important. But what is most important is engaging with others. Social media is not a billboard for you to advertise your wares and services. Social media is media that is meant to be social. Engage with your community. Comment and link on their posts. Respond to their questions and comments. Treat them like you would treat them in real life if they walked into your business.
Social Media 101 – Basic tips for setting up Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTube and Instagram accounts.
- Always include a current photo or image / brand logo on your profile page. Don’t be an egghead.
- Add a photo or image banner to the header.
- Fill in the bio on your profile page. Let people know who you are. Keep it brief and to the point.
- Link back to your website – this is important for businesses and nonprofits. If you don’t have a website, include the URL to your LinkedIn profile.
Below is an example of a professional Twitter page that includes a header image, the owner’s photo, a link to her website, and a brief bio about Cathy Curtis of Curtis Financial Planning.
What other questions do you have?
#blogaday 9/10
That’s me!! :)))) I hope you do the class Sally!