Are You Keeping the Conversation Going on Social Media?

You’re feeling pretty good about yourself on social media right about now, aren’t you?

(OK, you may know where this is going but play along with me please! It’ll be worth your while.)

You post regularly.

You connect and follow others.

You even like and share their content.

But, do you talk with your community?

You know, have a conversation.

Maybe you ask a question, they answer, and a dialogue ensues.

I’m talking about a real conversation with words and complete thoughts not just monosyllabic mumblings.

Let’s have a conversation about this!

(Sorry, couldn’t resist!)

This is all about engagement with your community regardless of the social media channel being used.

What I’m talking about here is stepping out of the comfort zone of many people.

It’s about asking free form questions and giving opinions maybe even have a difference of opinions.

And, not only that, after first contact, it’s then about keeping the conversation going.

So, how do you do this?

Start with what’s topical with your community in whatever your particular discipline is.

Check out #hashtags, keywords, and trending topics.

Make sure you’re adding value without merely parroting what others are saying.

Avoid topics like the weather (too boring), religion and politics (too controversial), and sports in certain parts of the world. (If you live in one of these places then you’ll know what I’m talking about!)

Have a genuine discussion, not merely “Yes” or “No.”

Reply promptly to replies sent to you.

Take advantage of this to invite others to join your community.

And, to repeat myself, add something of value.

We all have something unique and interesting to say, we just sometimes have to remember to say it!

That’s it for now!

Please check-out my 8 step approach for developing a social media program to get some more ideas on how to use social media.

Also, never forget to reach out to either ask questions or to ask for help from someone like myself!

In the meantime, thank you for following and reading my blog!

I look forward to any and all comments that you may have. I will reply to any comments made to this blog post as promptly as I can.

And, remember!

I do this for a living and if I can be of any assistance to either you or your organization, please feel free to call on me. Our initial discussion will be of no charge to you.