Yes, Being Social Does Pay!

The same question I keep getting asked again and again is “What do you post on Twitter?” or, “I don’t use Facebook because I don’t see the value of posting pictures of my dinner.”

I’m sure you’ve all heard the same line – it’s called “social media” for a reason – be social!  What does that mean exactly? Here are a few steps:

• Start by saying “Hi” and go from there.  Sounds simple enough right?  You’d be surprised how many people create accounts and just post advertisements, tips or their blog posts but won’t have any interactions with other people.  If you find your tweets or posts are falling upon deaf ears so to speak – be what I call a “good listener” – read other people’s posts – and respond to people with common interests.
• Pay it forward:  Share other people’s posts, retweet (RT) other people’s tweets, share people’s posts (don’t forget to cite your source – it’s not paying it forward if you don’t give credit where you got the info) If someone else is having a sale – or has a restaurant – your friends will be especially appreciative.
• Be social for a cause:  Do you have a favorite charity or nonprofit?  If so, be their advocate.  Your friends, family, coworkers, and clients will see your values and that will go a long way.

Once you have followed these steps, relationships will start to build.  Once the relationships start to build, people will ask you what you do and that’s when your foot is in the door.  Some of those people you have built relationships with may need your services.  If not, they may know people who may need your services.  How do I know?  Because these steps have worked for me!  I have sold paintings through Twitter by building relationships.  I have been requested to several social media services so if it can work for me – it can work for you.

Do you have any other tips I haven’t listed above that have worked for you?