Okay, I don’t think I’ve ever claimed to be any sort of social media guru, have I??? I really hope not… because you should know from the start that I am COMPLETELY unqualified to write this post about social media. YET, here I go! =)
One of the things that I get asked about a lot is social media… and what I think about it, regardless of how blatantly I say that I am NOT the person to ask. Specifically, I’m asked: Does it drive sales? AND How do you automate it so you can “manage it all”?
First: Does it drive sales? NO. It doesn’t drive sales. But, it IS worth doing because here’s what it CAN do: It can be an incredible lead generator… It can open doors, start conversations, and cultivate connections with your prospects and peers, as well as others within your industry.
Bottom-line: It isn’t a sales tool, it’s a marketing and messaging tool. So, be diligent and committed to this engine for business growth… just know that there MUST be a sales process implemented once the conversation is started, the lead is generated or the connection is made.
Second: How do you automate it so you can “manage it all”? Trust me, I get it. I have three kids in two different schools and multiple sports / activities, a husband I love, a house to keep, weight to lose, and all the rest of the blessings that keep MOST of us united in our “busyness”. I get the desire to automate and there are no shortage of tools you can use to automate social media. However, I really, really, REALLY caution against it.
Fine. Automate a tweet or two a day if you must, schedule well-choreographed marketing campaigns with hootsuite when you need to…. but realize that there is ABSOLUTELY NO VALUE IN PRETENDING TO BE ENGAGED. None. Zero. Nada. Your social media platform will be more robust and more profitable when you are THERE… actually, really THERE… engaging, responding, asking questions AND answering them… touting your own celebrations AND celebrating with others…. speaking AND listening.
That’s just my two cents. If you’re a REAL social media expert, I invite you to set my tribe straight on this…. Don’t let me continue to mislead them! =)
I agree. It’s not on my resume that I’m a social media expert either but I’m in the middle of all of it. The key IS engaging. For example, I didn’t “get” Twitter until I truly became engaged. What you have shared here is a timeless principle..strategies change but principles don’t.
One of the things I like about you is you tell it like it is. Thanks.
Excellent advice! The whole point of social media is to be engaged and be aware and really connect with people. It doesn’t make sense to automate everything. One thing that is convenient is to automate blog posts to your facebook and twitter. It helps people come to know you even better on a personal and real level, which is the best part of social media!
-Kate
I agree Kate… and I do have all of my posts automatically sent to both facebook and twitter…. Love that! Thanks for weighing in….
Beverly, I always look forward to your comments and support!