Putting the Social Back into Your Social Media

​I think we can all agree 2020 has been a little…shall we say different? This is the year we were told to stay home. We were told to avoid loved ones, coworkers, and friends. We learned to rely on devices for meetings, get togethers with friends, and even dates. Movie nights moved to the couch. The dining room table hasn’t seen this much action in a long time. We even embraced the outdoors. Video games, crafts and baking became popular. And on top of all that, we got a whole lot of housework done. 
 
When the world as we knew it was taken from us, connecting with people became even more important. This isn’t something that applies to only your friends and family. It is also important for your business. If you are working from home for the unforeseeable future, you need to remember to keep the social in your social media plan.
 
Sure, I am all for digital engagement measuring. Set me in front of some analytics and I can get lost. However, that’s not what it’s all about. If we rewind a little, we can remember a time when social media was fun. It wasn’t a bunch of political statements. It wasn’t a bunch of people arguing about who knows what. Basically, it wasn’t filled with so much anger and hate. Think back to why you joined Facebook, Twitter, Instagram… hell, even MySpace. You wanted to engage. You wanted to know what happened behind the scenes. 
 
In the beginning “behind the scenes” probably focused more on friends, family and, I’ll admit it, checking in on what some people from your past might be up to. But now, especially now, we are curious about businesses. We want to know who they are. We want to know what they stand for. We love to see pictures, videos, and posts from the companies we love. 
 
Your business is important. Your customers are concerned. Will you be there? Are you doing the right things? Are you okay? Sharing intimate details can be good for your business because it makes you real, and it shows a little bit of the face behind the operations. 

Looking for ways to add some personal touches to your company’s social media?
​Here are a few ideas. 
 
Pick a Platform
Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn are just some of the platforms available to businesses, but you need to choose what is right for you. Where are your followers? That is where you want to focus your energy. 
 
Decide What to Share
Every business is different, and every following is different. What do your followers react to? Photos? Videos? Information? Keep a close eye on those likes and comments and continue in that direction.
 
Focus on Customer Service
Have you ever reached out to a company and got no response? Annoying right? Don’t be that company. Answer questions. Reply to comments. If you don’t put in the time, why should your customers?
 
Be the Teacher
You are the expert in your field. Supply your followers with the information they need.  Write in a language they will understand. Be clear and concise when explaining what your company does and how it can help them. 
 
Have Fun
Like I said before, remember to take a step back. In a world gone mad, have fun. Humor goes a long way with the public. Entertain while educating. 
 
This year might not be how we pictured it to be, but sometimes embracing different can be the change your business needs. 

Want to talk about your company's social media challenges? Are you looking for guidance on how to add some personal touches to your posts? Connect with me on LinkedIn or email me!

~ Melissa Pravlik is K2 Creative's Social & Web Strategist.