Lately, I’ve been struggling with writer’s block er I guess blogger’s block, but don’t seem to have a problem Microblogging. Technically, Twitter and Facebook are considered Microblogging platforms.  ”Microblogging” differs from traditional “Blogging”  because the content allows users to share short sentences, individual images, video links and links to other websites.”

Photo from geekandpoke.com

Welcome to the Age of Microblogging — soundbite thoughts at a rapid speed like you were changing channels on your TV every couple seconds.

How do you stand out with millions of channels for people to chose from?

Microbloggers post about topics ranging from “what I’m doing right now,” to “what’s on mind” to “what’s new” in my life. Commercial microblogs even exist that promote websites, services/products, create engagement and show transparency within an organization.

During my “Baptism by Fire” Social Media training, I have come to understand that the “Social” part of Social Media Microblogging is YOUR personal perspective and works best when there is a human touch.  ALSO no two people or brands use it the same, and it is similar to the relationships we have offline.  We wear many hats and go through many emotions, our Media usage and how we communicate online and off reflects this.

Here are some things I have learned along the way:

1. Update status on a regular basis.
Don’t assume that you are the only person someone is following. You may want to aim for dayparting your usage to reflect who you are trying to reach. Be there when they are there.

2. Be real.
People like to know that you are an actual person, not a bot. Quotes, other peoples posts are great for consistency and letting people get to you, based on the things you like, but original content and thoughts seems to get the most reactions.

3. Media IS a form of entertainment and the same rules apply.
If you are musician, social media is your stage; how would you talk to people at a concert? If you are a Marketer how would you greet folks at a networking event? Would walk up to them and start selling them from the world hello? Would you start broadcasting quotes at them? Would you read them article from magazines? If you do, I am curious how that’s working out for you?

4. Respond to people.
If you aren’t getting responses, it might be because you are not responding to people.   Have conversations as often as you can, ask questions and thank people for the answers.  I used to walk by this guy at work every morning and would say hi, he never looked up or said hi back, I finally stopped saying hi.

5. Save the drama for your Mama.
No one needs to know all your woes. You are entertainment, but not a dramatic movie. Remember that. You will want to use the same PR rules that you use for your brand when it comes to what you share online.

 

What tips would you give to someone who was just getting started with Social Media?

 

Join me every Monday from 8-9pm CT for Country Music’s largest LIVE Chat and 24/7 Community on Twitter. Use/Follow the #CMchat  hashtag to participate. 

UPCOMING GUESTS