I’ve talked many times about the importance of using social media as a part of your marketing strategy, but do you know the real reason that social media is so vital to your success?

It’s not the boost in visibility – although that’s a great perk. It’s not the advertising options that social media offers either. The number one benefit of having a strong social media presence is that it allows you to BE SOCIAL!

Businesses are built on relationships, and social media is the strongest relationship-building tool in your success toolkit. So, let’s look at 3 awesome ways to get out there, get social, and put those platforms to work for you!

1. Use the Cocktail Party Strategy
   
   Think of social media as a giant party and everyone you know is invited. What are you going to bring to that party? I’ll give you a hint – it’s not going to be your product catalogue! You’d never try to push a sale on a friend at a cocktail party, and that shouldn’t be your focus on social media either. Use this platform to get to know your customers. Ask questions, start conversations, share a laugh! That’s how loyal, lasting relationships are built – not through pushy sales tactics.
   
   
2. Keep the Conversation Flowing
   
   Imagine meeting someone in public, saying hello, then never uttering another word… That would be weird, right? And it certainly wouldn’t lead to a great new friendship!
   
   Social media interaction allows for so much engagement, and you’d be crazy to not take advantage of it. Comment on posts or send a message just to check in and see how they’re doing. Don’t rely on likes or emojis to sustain a relationship.
   
   Pick 5 people a day that you want to get to know a little better. Explore their profile and comment or ask a question. Let them know how much you love a post and back it up by sharing it. Taking the time to make a true connection matters, and it truly pays off.
   
   
3. Show Up
   
   You show up for your friends and your family. You’re there for the people that matter to you. Apply that to your social media strategy as well!
   
   Showing up on social media can take many forms – posting daily, sharing real, authentic content, engaging with people and making a real effort to get to know who they are and what they’re about. You’d be surprised at how much fun you can have just showing up for 10 or 15 minutes each day!

If you’re ready to get social, if you’re ready to expand your online marketing and really get yourself out there for visibility, credibility, becoming an authority and  an expert in your field, or becoming a thought leader, check out this episode of Building Your Empire with SophieZo.

Then, let’s talk! I have some fantastic strategies that are going to help you get social and get to that next level of success.