Where Do I Start on Social Media?

I get that question a lot.

Believe it or not, this far into the Twenty-first Century, we’re on the brink of the Metaverse, and there’re still many folks who aren’t on social media.

Some of these misguided souls are even self-employed and they’re not on social media.

But, something or someone gets them thinking about it and, hence, the question.

Let’s talk about this!

I won’t go into the reasons why these lost sheep aren’t with the rest of the flock.

(Somewhere, I’m sure, a doctoral candidate is working on her dissertation on this very subject.)

But, I will talk about where to start.

Also, remember that these people usually don’t want to spend a lot, if any, money to get started which is perfectly alright.

The best way to start on social media is LinkedIn.

(I’ll bet you thought I was going to say Facebook.)

I have two reasons for this.

First, LinkedIn is a free, professional way to quickly establish an online profile and allow an individual to easily connect with others in their network.

Next, LinkedIn gives a user flexibility of purpose.

By that I mean someone can either present themselves as a potential employee (Trust me, sooner or later, everyone needs to look for another job.) or as self employed.

For the latter, LinkedIn offers a company page for whatever the business may be.

Users can post content on LinkedIn and demonstrate to their network their knowledge and abilities.

As one writer once put it, “LinkedIn can be your website!”

And, she was right.

LinkedIn offers a free way to put one’s self out on the Internet before making an investment elsewhere.

I ask prospects all the time, “What do you have to lose?”

A client of mine, whose an executive recruiter, once told me that if he receives a resume and the sender is not on LinkedIn then it goes to the bottom of his pile because he has to do a lot more verification of the candidate and he always asks himself, “Why isn’t this person on LinkedIn?”

Think about that for a moment.

If prospective employers or clients can’t find you online then what do you think they’re going to think about you?

Are you uncomfortable with technology?

Are you trying to hide something?

So, if you’re not on social media then I strongly recommend that you start with LinkedIn.

Oh, and why not Facebook?

There’s nothing wrong with Facebook for social interaction with friends and family.

For businesses, it’s a good place to do business just make sure that you’re on Facebook first!

That’s it for now!

Please check out my 8 step approach for developing a social media program for 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.

I can also be reached at conpsweeney@someddi.com